Former Leeds United striker, Noel Whelan, has revealed why Hoops fans shouldn’t worry about recent speculation liking Odsonne Edouard with a move to the Premier League
Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan feels that Celtic’s proven scouting network will have another “gem” lined up to replace the 22-year-old should they decide to cash in.
So what has Whelan said?
When he was asked if he thinks Neil Lennon should get stressed about the potential loss of Edouard, he said:
“They have always found someone. Their scouting network is fantastic.
“You look at Van Dijk and certain players that have come in and out of that football club and Celtic have got it right. They notice a player, get him, groom him and when the time is right and they have done their part they sell them on for a very healthy fee. That keeps the club sustainable.
“They have had amazing transfers. They always seem to find that gem.
“They will know they cannot compete with the Premier League even though they are a giant themselves. They know that teams across Europe can come in. It is harsh but it is a reality for Celtic but they have a great scouting network and they will continue to find gems.”
So is Whelan correct?
Absolutely, the highest profile players from recent years will be Virgil van Dijk and Moussa Dembele who left for £13million and £19.7m respectively but Kieran Tierney – an academy graduate – topped the pair of them at £25m.
Edouard isn’t the only Celtic player attracting interest, Kristoffer Ajer is also in demand with his agent stating that he will be away this summer – or at the end of this season, at least – and as a player who arrived for free as a fresh faced 17-year-old from IFK Start, he will be the latest player to provide a significant boost to the Parkhead coffers should he make the rumoured journey south.
Patryk Klimala was signed in January for £3.5m and although his appearances have been fleeting and he is yet to score his first Celtic goal, time will tell if he is the next on the conveyor belt of success for the Hoops scouting team and the man to replace Edouard or if they have another diamond ready to be unearthed.