Former Premier League keeper, Paul Robinson, believes that Celtic will have an interesting transfer window as speculation mounts regarding one of their on-loan stars.
In an interview with Football Insider, Robinson reveals that Mohamed Elyounoussi is available at a “realistic” price as the Hoops look to tie him down on a permanent deal.
So what has Robinson said?
Robinson was asked if he thought that the recent speculation with Southampton valuing Elyounoussi at £9m was a fair deal for Celtic and he replied:
“It’s not a bad signing, it’s a lot of money for Celtic to spend”.
“But I think Southampton are talking about Fraser Forster as well and have put an unrealistic price tag on him, but £9million seems a realistic price”.
“And if Celtic can get the funds, it’ll be interesting to watch that transfer”.
So is Robinson correct?
As the former Spurs keeper mentions, Celtic also have an interest in Fraser Forster and in prolonging his time at the club, the Saints appear to be climbing the league again and may feel more confident about allowing players to leave.
It’s a dilemma for Neil Lennon because both players will be on Premier League wages and demand considerable transfer fees, if it comes down to one or the other it would be a tough decision to make, although he may see Elyounoussi as Scott Sinclair’s replacement on the wage bill if he can get rid of the Englishman, Preston the latest club rumoured to be interested.
Elyounoussi was in a rich vein of form prior to his injury with 7 goals and 6 assists in 13 appearances giving a balance to Celtic’s attack in support of Odsonne Edouard, it also allowed Ryan Christie to play in his preferred central position.
It may be a lot of money to pay but £9m would represent good value for a player who cost the Saints £16m just a season ago and who has settled well into life at Parkhead, he would also still have sell on value if he were to maintain the early form he has shown during his loan spell.
Who would you rather sign permanently?
Elyounoussi
Forster
Forster may have the emotional connection with the fans but Elyounoussi is the one that the Hoops should look to tie down permanently, not only from a playing sense but from a financial one too.