Celtic have opened talks with Brighton and Hove Albion over the possible signing of Shane Duffy, with the lifelong Hoops fan a wanted man down south.
The Daily Record has reported the story and understands that the emotional connection with Celtic could be factor in the Republic of Ireland centre-half’s decision, however, with Premier League interest, he might not to get to make the decision.
Duffy’s loan fee alone is said to be £2million and with other interested parties said to be looking at permanent deals, Neil Lennon could be set to miss out on his first choice defensive target, however, a source close to the player told the Record:
“Shane has made it clear that he’s a massive Celtic supporter and that could make all the difference in terms of his decision. If he did chose Celtic then it would be more of a romantic notion rather than a financial decision.
“Celtic are certainly part of the conversation but there is also a realisation that this will be a very difficult deal to do because it’s impossible to compete with the wages on offer in the English Premier League.”
A central defender remains a priority for Lennon with just Kristoffer Ajer and Christopher Jullien as recognised specialists and restricts the gaffer’s ability to play the 3-5-2 formation that worked so well after the new year as his side coasted to the title.
Is Shane Duffy better than the current Celtic centre-halves?
Yes
No
Hoops fans will be hoping that the 28-year old goes with his heart over his bank balance as he could be the last piece of the jigsaw towards building a squad capable of dominating Scottish football once again.