Dedryck Boyata is back at Celtic after his World Cup exploits and Brendan Rodgers has confirmed talks are underway to sign him up to a new contract, with his current deal set to expire at the end of this season.
The Belgian is one of the manager’s most trusted players, making 39 appearances for the club last term, emerging as perhaps the most reliable defender in the Hoops backline.
Renewing his contract is seen as a priority, but the Hoops boss has admitted that the ball is in Boyata’s court when it comes to deciding on his future, with the club making it clear he is wanted.
As quoted by STV, Rodgers said:
I had a long chat with him yesterday, he’s in a good place and we want to keep him for as long as we can, that’s important
Whether he decides he wants to move on after this year then that’ll be up to him and his representatives.
But my priority is getting him fit and back into the team again because he’s a top class player and for however long he’s at Celtic we just want to keep him working and give him the best.
Clearly the personal relationship between manager and player is going to play a big role in Boyata determining his future, so it’s heartening to hear that the manager is taking the time ensure that the defender is happy and ready for the challenges ahead this season.
As for the chances of him signing a new deal, everything appears to remain up in the air. While the player is clearly happy at Celtic Park, he could have the chance to earn big money elsewhere off the back of exposure in the World Cup.
Hopefully we’ll know either way sooner rather than later.
Do you think Dedryck Boyata will sign a new contract at Celtic? Let us know in the comments…