Former Premier League keeper, Paul Robinson, has pinpointed the player that could be Celtic’s biggest signing of the summer if they are able to get a deal across the line.
Speaking to Football Insider, Robinson feels that persuading Odsonne Edouard to sign a new deal would be a real coup for the Parkhead club.
So what has Robinson said?
When asked about the rumours coming out of Paradise that Celtic have offered the Frenchman a new deal, Robinson said:
“I’m not sure he realises his time is up, he probably just realised his value.”
“If other clubs are talking to his agent or other clubs have had his head turned at times, then you, as a player, he realises there’s a different value to him.”
“No disrespect to Celtic or anyone like that but they may not be able to match the wages he’s offered elsewhere. As well as he’s done for Celtic, it’d be hugely, hugely important for Celtic to tie him down.”
“If they could tie him down to a new contract it would be the biggest signing they could make this summer.”
So is Robinson correct?
Absolutely, Edouard’s form since the winter break has been sensational and with 20 goals and 10 assists in 25 league games over the course of the season he has been instrumental in guiding his side to another Hampden Park semi-final and securing a 12 point lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
He is performing to the standard expected of a £9m player in Scotland and it’s no surprise that he has been the subject of increased speculation from the Premier League and further afield.
Will Edouard be at Parkhead next season?
Yes
No
As Robinson states, as the first name on the team-sheet – and the best player in the league – he (and his agent) will feel that he should be paid accordingly, not only to reflect his worth to the team but also to let potential suitors know how highly the club values him. Should a “bigger” club come calling, they better bring their cheque book.