MOTHERWELL are set to announce today the departure of experienced midfielder Stephen Pearson.

The 33-year-old has been a vital cog in the Fir Park club's midfield over the last two seasons but is now poised to jet out to India.

Despite being under contract with the Ladbrokes Premiership club for another year, the former Scotland internationalist has been a target for Atletico de Kolkata who now appear to have got their man.

SportTimes understands Motherwell club bosses did all they could to keep Pearson, but simply could not compete with the package offered by the Indian Super League outfit.

Mark McGhee's club is believed to be in line for a small fee for the transfer.

It comes just a day before the team that finished last year's campaign report back for pre-season training.

Pearson came through the youth ranks at Motherwell and was part of a group of young players that are fondly referred to as the Class of 02.

Pearson, Stevie Hammell, James McFadden, captain Keith Lasley and former Well striker David Clarkson all graduated into the Well first team at around the same time before plying their trade elsewhere then returning.

After spells with Celtic, Derby County, Stoke City, Bristol City and Kerala Blasters - who also play in the ISL - the man known as 'Pearo' re-signed for Motherwell in 2015.