The Scottish Sun has reported that Olivier Ntcham remains a transfer target for Southampton despite recent stories to the contrary by Sky Sports and other media networks.
With the Saints losing out to Juventus for Weston McKennie – tough choice that one – they have relit the fires of interest in the French youth international who is believed to be one of the players that has caused the ire of Neil Lennon and may be on borrowed time at Parkhead.
The Premier League side aren’t the only club to have shown an interest in Ntcham with Porto, Marseille and Lyon said to be monitoring his situation, there were talks of a possible bid last summer in which the 24-year old did little to enamour himself to the gaffer with his claims about Scottish football:
“Celtic has given me a lot but leaving is the best solution for my development. We can do as many matches as we want but, with all due respect for my opponents, if the level in front is not high, you do not progress.
“I was really disappointed not to have gone to Porto last summer.
“I have played with players who have less quality than me and who are today in top clubs. Each player’s journey is different. I am 200% sure of myself. I am not saying that I am a complete player but I know that I will become one.”
“What could be the perfect stage for me? A big championship: Germany, France, Spain – coming back to France would be something very, very good.
“The interest of the Marseille? It is flattering. It is a very big club with very big support. If I went to Marseille, I would blossom, I have always signed for clubs with lots of fans.”
So for the last two summers Ntcham has wanted to leave, it isn’t really a surprise that he isn’t flavour of the month with Lennon especially if his representatives are actively trying to seal his departure from Glasgow.
Olivier Ntcham?
Keep
Cash in
There has never been any doubting his ability, however, his head and heart clearly aren’t with Celtic and he would attract a decent transfer fee which could be reinvested into a replacement – conveniently, the arrival of David Turnbull has significantly softened the blow should he leave, at least he wants to be here.