Yet another “huge club” has joined the race to sign Celtic striker, Odsonne Edouard, but on this occasion Neil Lennon should be able to sleep easier at night.
Former Premier League striker, Kevin Phillips, speaking to Football Insider, believes that Leeds United would pull off a “massive coup” should they be able to tempt the Frenchman south – if they are promoted to the top flight.
So what has Phillips said?
When asked about the speculation in The Mirror linking the SFWA player of the year with a move to Elland Road, he said:
“It would be a massive coup. It is always a slight gamble bringing someone in from the Scottish Premiership because it is a big jump.
“But he has had a taste of European football and been a success. We have seen plenty of players come down from Celtic recently and perform.
“It would be a massive signing. Leeds will have a big draw because they are a huge club. Once the crowd get back to Elland Road, that place can create an atmosphere. Not on par with Celtic Park but they can’t half make a noise.”
So is Phillips correct?
Yes, it would be a huge coup, given that Leeds are – despite their history – far from an established Premier League side and not in European competition next season.
With the European Championships delayed until next summer Edouard faces a decision that could have a major influence on his chances of being selected ahead of the tournament, with France boasting an array of attacking talents.
Staying in Scotland, which would be music to Hoops fans ears, would inevitably end with more silverware and immortality, however, given the status of the Premiership, it would only harm his international hopes.
Edouard – if and when he moves – will be looking to move to a bigger club and although Leeds might have been at one point, they have a long way to go before they can claim to have bragging rights over Scotland’s undisputed number one side.