Alex McLeish has expressed sympathy for Celtic in their attempts to keep Odsonne Edouard at the club beyond this summer as speculation surrounding his future hots up.
Speaking to Football Insider, the former Rangers and Scotland boss believes that the player has conducted himself in an exemplary manner but that his representatives will be the ones causing the problems.
So what has McLeish said?
When asked about the 22-year old’s current status at Parkhead, he said:
“Certainly he knows there’s a lot of talk about him and he just has to keep delivering the performances. Sadly for Celtic, they’ll probably have to sell him if they get the offer they can’t refuse.
“This summer? I do see a wee bit of dignity in that guy and it doesn’t look like he’s a troublemaker kicking Lenny’s door down every day but I wouldn’t be at all surprised that his agent is working away.
“The smart money in that he would go to a bigger opportunity for more money and that’s the crux of the whole thing.”
So is McLeish correct?
Absolutely, prior to the thigh injury that kept him out of the Hoops last two games, Edouard had maintained his form from last season and certainly wasn’t showing signs that his head has been turned.
Would you sell Edouard for £40m?
Yes
No
Unfortunately for Celtic fans, neither Edouard or his agent will lose any sleep about leaving the club at such an important juncture in their history and that securing a big money move will be more important than 10-in-a-row.
A transfer fee is rumoured to have been set by the Hoops and with Albian Ajeti settling into life at Paradise with two goals in his first two games, his departure may not be as hard felt as first thought – if the price is right.