Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has admitted a permanent move to the Hoops is unlikely for Oliver Burke, despite the player stating he would love an extended stay in Glasgow.
The on-loan West Bromwich Albion man has been in superb form over the last month, making an instant impact in the Celtic starting eleven.
The 21-year-old spoke last week about his desire to stay at Celtic, but Rodgers believes it may not be possible given the Baggies’ likely desire to keep him this summer.
Asked if the move was ‘pie in the sky’, the Hoops boss told The Daily Record:
I think so. It would be great for Celtic but the reality is that the improvements he will make here over the course of the next six months will probably excite West Brom. And then if they get promoted then probably his wages change anyway. He helps us for now, we help them.
You are getting in a big talent, but the likelihood is that type of player fits around the core of the boys that are here. It may well be too much but all you can do is improve and develop him and see what happens.
Burke was again exceptional for Celtic this afternoon, creating two assists for his teammates including a superb, rapid run to deliver Scott Sinclair’s second goal of the afternoon on a plate.
Celtic fans are dreaming of signing him given his instant impact but it all seems a bit out of our reach given the likely figures involved.
Burke signed for West Brom for a reported £15m and his contract doesn’t expire until 2022, meaning they hold all the cards on his future.
We’ll just have to enjoy him while we have him.