Celtic News

Report – Lure of first-team football could swing chase in Hoops favour in pursuit of Spanish wonderkid

|

Celtic are reported to be facing stiff competition if they are to be successful in their attempts to sign Atletico Madrid’s wonderkid Rodrigo Riquelme with Hoffenheim the latest in a long line of clubs being added to his potential suitors, according to Spanish outlet La Razon.

Marca (also of Spain), originally revealed that both sides of the Glasgow divide were interested in the winger in March but now Estadio Deportivo claims that Real Madrid, Valencia and Real Betis are also monitoring the youngster’s situation.

Celtic would offer the fastest route into first-team football with the 20-year old displaying the sort of potential that would instantly make him one of the first names on the team-sheet.

Riquelme was instrumental in the Atletico side that tore apart Rangers much vaunted academy side 4-0 in the UEFA Youth League having a hand in all four goals.

1 of 10
Celtic fans at Celtic Park

Who was Neil Lennon's first signing in 2011 (who wasn't a Bosman) in the first of Celtic's eight title wins?

The Spanish youth international has yet to sign a new contract with the La Liga giants and will be available on a free contract when the next transfer window opens making him an attractive proposition across the continent.

He has a big decision to make with regards to his next move, staying in Spain would see him probably earn a higher wage, however, a move to the famous green and white hoops would not only see him make the step into regular senior football but also give him greater exposure to the Premier League and European competition.

Riquelme is undoubtedly a talented player but with just two appearances for Diego Simeone’s side, he is unlikely to want to stay with Atletico beyond the summer, Parkhead could yet be his next destination regardless of how “daunting” a task the Hoops face in securing his services.

Share this article

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *