Celtic are set to lose yet another young starlet to the MLS as Cameron Harper has reportedly signed a pre contract with American New York Red Bulls.
Speculation had been rife since Harper made the breakthrough to the first team on whether the youngster would extend his stay at Paradise or if he was likely to move on as teams from the MLS looked to poach the youngster. It is understood New York red Bulls were keen to take Harper as soon as possible and it seems that the two clubs have agreed a fee for the Red Bulls to secure his services when the MLS window opens on the 10th February.
Celtic signed the nineteen year old back in September 2018 after impressing Celtic scouts and was tipped to become a star in years to come. Lack of first team opportunities concerned Harper and he believes that he will improve his chances of first team action under the Red Bulls coach, Gerhard Struber.
Harper made his first team debut against Hibs at Celtic Park this season after thirteen players were required to self isolate, and by nd large he performed well. He was quick, agile and had a keen eye for goal. He looked accomplished on the ball but I think it was difficult to tell from just one first team appearance how he would perform in the side but there is no doubt his a talent.
The rate at which Celtic are losing our young stars must be a source of worry for the Hoops fans as the club have recently lost Liam Morrison and Barry Hepburn to Bayern Munich, Liam Hughes to Liverpool and Josh Adam to Manchester City, and with top prospect, Karamoko Dembele also seemingly unwilling to extend his stay, these are worrying times.
The message that this also sends out to young stars aspiring to forge a career in the Hoops is also concerning as how can the club attract the best young players if our current crop are disbanding due to lack of first team opportunities?