Rangers and Celtic transfer interest in ‘talented’ Man Utd player who ‘puffs out his chest’ gets clear backing

Rangers and Celtic transfer interest in ‘talented’ Man Utd player who ‘puffs out his chest’ gets clear backing

Rangers and Celtic transfer speculation has surrounded the Man Utd man.

Rangers and Celtic interest in a Manchester United player has been handed a clear verdict from one pundit.

Midfielder Hannibal Mejbri has been linked with a move to Glasgow this summer after a loan at Sevilla last term. His future with the Red Devils is unclear and after Rangers were initially linked with snapping him up, talk of Celtic interest then reared its head.

Alan Hutton, a former right-back at Ibrox, has backed either side making a move for him as he has been impressed with what’s he viewed of the midfielder in a Man Utd jersey. He’d prefer him to swap red for blue but Hutton can also see why Celtic would be keen on him.

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There will be other options for Mejbri though, in his opinion. He told Football Insider: “I like him, I think he’s a really talented footballer. I think he’s getting to that stage in his career where he needs to play regular football.

“The times when I have seen him at Manchester United, and you know, as a player looking in, how heavy that shirt can be but he takes it, puffs out his chest and he gives everything. The potential is there and I’m not surprised that the Old Firm clubs are looking at him, I think he could slot right in

“You’d think if O’Riley was to go, Celtic would be looking for a midfielder and I think Rangers could use someone like that in there for competition as well. It’ll come down to him because I’m sure he’s got other options as well possibly in the Premier League and abroad.

“For him, it’ll be about assessing his options, looking to see where he’ll get the most minutes, and then deciding. Of course, I’d rather see him at Rangers.”

Celtic Would Likely Need Exit To Sign Linked Star

Celtic are only likely to sign one of the midfielders they are targeting if Matt O’Riley is sold, according to the Daily Record.

The Bhoys are coming under serious pressure over their Danish midfielder, with Italian side Atalanta having made repeated bids and clubs from south of the border also showing interest.

At present, no club have met Celtic’s asking price for O’Riley, but if the Bhoys want to sign a midfielder they have been targeting then that may need to happen.

Celtic are showing interest in Augsburg man Arne Engels, having identified him as a good prospect.

Engels though would not come cheap for Celtic and the Bhoys would be much more likely to sign him if O’Riley is sold.

The 20-year-old midfielder is highly rated and made 32 appearances in the Bundesliga for Augsburg last season.

He scored in three of those outings, striking against Wolfsburg, Borussia Monchengladbach and Freiburg.

Augsburg have Engels under contract at the club until the summer of 2027.

Brendan Rodgers wants to land Owen Beck for Celtic

Celtic are still in the hunt to sign Liverpool left-back Owen Beck. 

According to a report from the Sunday Mail (18 August, back page), the Hoops are looking to sign a new left-back this summer and they have been in talks to sign the Welsh defender.

The 22-year-old is one of the main targets for Brendan Rodgers this summer for the left-back slot, and they could now move for him.

The Bhoys tried to sign him in the January transfer window but the move was scuppered by Jurgen Klopp. The Reds boss recalled him from his loan spell at Dundee when he was facing a defensive injury crisis.

After he made an appearance for Liverpool, he was not eligible to play for another club, and so he returned to Dens Park on loan yet again.

Celtic can sign him permanently and also on loan. In case they’re aiming for a direct transfer, the Bhoys will need to pay around £3 million.

English Championship sides Middlesbrough and Leeds United are ready to sign him, so Celtic could strong competition here. Liverpool are willing to sell him this summer, and the news should come as a boost for the Bhoys.

The Hoops have recently added Adam Idah from Norwich City to the side, and Rodgers could still look to add a few more players.

Several clubs, such as Atalanta, have shown interest in signing Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley, and they have failed to meet the asking price.

With less than two weeks remaining before the window slams shut, it is highly unthinkable that Celtic will sell their Denmark midfielder.

The Bhoys are also interested in signing Ajax defender Owen Wijndal and Augsburg midfielder Arne Engels. Celtic are still looking to add another winger, a left-sided centre-half, and another striker before the end of the window.

Club Could Sell Rather Than Loan Celtic And Leeds United Target

Celtic and Leeds United may be able to sign a left-back they have been targeting on a permanent deal rather than on loan this summer, according to the Daily Record.

Brendan Rodgers is keen to add another left-back at Celtic Park as he searches for competition for Greg Taylor.

Leeds boss Daniel Farke also wants signings and could look for another left-back with a long Championship season in the offing for the Whites.

Both clubs are showing interest in Liverpool left-back Owen Beck, who spent last season away from Anfield on loan at Dundee.

It has been thought that the 22-year-old could be heading away from Anfield on loan once again.

However, it has now emerged that Liverpool could be willing to sell Beck on a permanent deal for the right price.

Liverpool have set about selling a number of young players, with Fabio Carvalho sold to Brentford and Bobby Clark likely to be sold to Red Bull Salzburg.
Beck could also follow out of the door if the price is right.

The left-back also has interest from Michael Carrick’s Middlesbrough.

Celtic target four additions, O’Riley pursuit dropped, Rangers lose out on striker, Cantwell update – transfer news

The latest transfer news and speculation surrounding the Old Fire

Rangers lose out on striker

Rangers have missed out on the signing of Rapid Bucharest striker Albion Rrahmani. The Kosovan international, who scored 18 goals in 29 matches for the Romanian side, has been linked with a move to Ibrox throughout the summer but a fee was never agreed. The 23-year-old has instead completed a £4.25million transfer to Sparta Prague, with Rapid, who are now managed by ex-Celtic boss Neil Lennon, also gaining a 15 per cent sell-on fee. Rapid confirmed the move in a statement which read: “Unfortunately, the story of Albion Rrahmani has come to an end here. He is completing his medical and won’t be a part of the squad for the match against Dinamo Bucharest. But we know he will certainly still be supporting the team.”

Matt O’Riley pursuit dropped

Atalanta appear to have finally given up in their pursuit of Celtic’s Matt O’Riley. The Italians failed with five bids for the midfielder culminating in a £21.5million offer plus add-ons being rejected this week. And the Serie A outfit now seem to have moved on to another target with reports in Italy claiming that they are close to completing the signing of Lazar Samardzic. La Gazzetta dello Sport state that Atalanta have reached a quick agreement with Udinese to sign the Serbian international midfielder for €20million plus €5m add-ons. The report claims that Atalanta decided to drop their interest in O’Riley after Celtic raised their asking to €30million plus add-ons.

Todd Cantwell latest

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Rangers manager Philippe Clement has admitted that he is relying on shipping players out in order to finance further additions to his squad ahead of the transfer deadline. One player he wants out the door is midfielder Todd Cantwell, who has been banished from the first-team squad after submitting a transfer request. And according to the latest reports from Turkey, one club could be set to offer the former Norwich playmaker an Ibrox escape rout. Yomrason Haber claim that Trabzonspor have renewed their interest in Cantwell and could look to team him up with former Rangers team-mates John Lundstram and Borna Barisic, who joined the Super Lig club following the expiry of their contracts earlier this summer.

Celtic target four additions

Celtic are still looking to strengthen in four key areas ahead of the transfer deadline, according to a report. The Daily Record state that Brendan Rodgers wants a left-back, winger, left-sided centre half and another striker before the window shuts on August 30. Left-back is a priority position as Celtic look to provide competition and cover for Greg Taylor. According to reports, Liverpool’s Owen Beck, who impressed on loan at Dundee, and Ajax’s Owen Wijndal are the two main targets. Beck, 22, could be available on loan or via a £3m permanent transfer, while Wijndal, 24, capped 11 times by The Netherlands, is also interesting German side Werder Bremen.

Why Atalanta decided to sign Matt O’Riley transfer alternative

Matt O’Riley was Celtic’s Player of the Season

Atalanta have shifted their focus in the transfer market after Celtic reportedly ‘increased their asking price’ for midfielder Matt O’Riley.

The Serie A club has opted to secure Lazar Samardzic from Udinese instead.

Reports indicate that Atalanta has reached an agreement with Udinese for Samardzic, who has already arrived in Bergamo for medical examinations and is set to sign a contract lasting until 2028, with an option for an additional year.

Initially, Atalanta had prioritised signing Denmark international O’Riley for the attacking midfield position – particularly because Teun Koopmeiners is on the brink of joining Juventus.

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However, after extended negotiations with Celtic, including five rejected offers, they opted to withdraw their interest in the 23-year-old.

La Gazzetta dello Sport claim that Celtic recently increased their financial demands for O’Riley to €30million plus add-ons.

In response, Atalanta quickly sought alternatives and finalised the deal for Samardzic within just a few days.

Sky Sport Italia state that the transfer fee for Samardzic is €20m with an additional €5m in potential add-ons.

Norwich City: Johannes Hoff Thorup on strker transfer quest

Johannes Hoff Thorup is confident Norwich City will get the right striker in the building (Image: Andy Sumner/Focus Images Ltd)

Norwich City will step up attempts to sign Adam Idah’s replacement ahead of Sheffield United’s Championship visit.

City remain active in the closing two weeks of the transfer market, with a striker top of the list after opting not to sign Turkish forward Bertug Yildirim in the wake of Idah’s Celtic exit last week.

“I don’t think we are there yet, but we are working on some different options for us,” said Thorup, speaking after Saturday’s 2-2 league draw against Blackburn. “So again, I hope it can be before the next game (Sheffield United). You never know.

“In football, it takes more than just one or two parts to agree when it’s a transfer deal. We have to wait and see, but I’m positive that we can bring quality into the group.”

Josh Sargent underlined his value to the cause with a goal and an assist against Rovers, but Sargent is the only fit senior central striker on the books, with Ashley Barnes on the fitness comeback trail, and youngster Ken Aboh poised for a Football League loan.

Thorup insisted prior to the weekend’s draw he is keen to take his time get the best fit for his attacking unit.

“What we discuss at the moment is the type of striker we want,” he said. “Should we go for a striker who would be a like-for-like replacement for Adam? Or should we go for another type of striker?

“Because we have Josh in the building, and he’s the physical, strong number nine, do we want a player who maybe also could cover other positions, where for Josh, and Adam, it was not really natural for them to be on the left or the right hand side?

“There’s actually more options to this. The most important thing for us is that we find the best possible fit for the group. Of course, a player who should be technically strong and needs to have that intensity in his game where he can press and he can run, but there’s many options.

“I know when the window is open everyone can be a little bit impatient and say, ‘Okay, let’s get him in. Let’s get him in’. But end of the day, when we are in October or November, no one will remember this one week or the next two weeks, but everyone will remember if it’s a good or bad choice. So that’s the most important for us.

“We cannot bring in players where they’re not used to being calm on the ball, comfortable on the ball. We’re not going to bring in players that don’t have the intensity to play the game that we want to play.

“To be fair, we have a very strong recruitment department that can find good players with the hunger to come to this club and perform for this club, because this is the best possible step for them in their career.

“There’s a lot of things that go into it, technical, tactical, the personality, where they are in their career, so many things going on. It’s not easy, and it’s not something you just do overnight.”

New demands from Celtic for O’Riley forced Atalanta to sign Samardzic.

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Celtic have further raised their asking price for Matt O’Riley, pushing Atalanta to sign Lazar Samardzic instead.

Atalanta have reached an agreement to sign Samardzic from Udinese and the Serbia international has already arrived in Bergamo to undergo medical tests and sign a contract until 2028 with an option for a further campaign.

It is no secret that Atalanta’s priority for the attacking midfield role was Denmark international O’Riley, but after weeks of negotiations with Celtic, La Dea decided to drop the 23-year-old.

Celtic’s new demands for O’Riley pushed Atalanta to sign Samardzic

According to Gazzetta, the Scottish club recently raised their economic demands for O’Riley, asking for €30m plus add-ons.

Therefore, Atalanta decided to look for alternatives and closed the deal with Udinese in a few days.

According to Sky Sport Italia, Samardzic will move to the Gewiss Stadium for €20m plus €5m add-ons.

Gazzetta reports that despite Samardzic’s imminent purchase, Atalanta still hope to persuade Koopmeiners to stay at the club beyond the summer and snub a move to Juventus.

As Celtic continues their search to add new talent to the squad, one player who Brendan Rodgers was rumoured to he of interest this summer now seems to be on his way out of his club.

Tanner Tessman was linked to Celtic this summer after a move to Inter Milan fell through back in July after talks with the player’s agents broke down.

The American was said to have been wanted by Turin, Parma, Como, Brentford and Celtic at the time but since then, there has been no further update.

However, this week Venezia general director Filippo Antonelli has spoken out about the 22-year-old midfielder and it seems he is no longer part of the Serie A club’s plans moving forward.

Tessmann ‘out of Venezia project’

Antonelli told Il Gazzetinno that Tessmann is now out of Venezia’s plans this season but will still train with the first team.

The midfielder seems to have been affected by the speculation over his future and has now been told he is no longer available for selection for the season ahead, as cited by Football Scotland.

Antonelli said, “Tessmann is out of the Venezia project. It’s been a difficult week, try to understand me. I’m especially sorry for the player, for the situation he put himself in. Right now he is out of the list of players available for Di Francesco, but it is his choice that does not depend on us.

“Of course, he continues to train with the rest of the team, but with his head, at the moment, he is not there. In Serie A our way of thinking does not change.

“We prefer to have players who are highly motivated to play with the Venezia shirt and fully convinced that they will marry our project. Otherwise, it’s better to take someone else.”

US youngster could offer Celtic an option

Tessmann has been capped twice by the USA and made his debut in the 7-0 thrashing of Trinidad back in February 2021.

He made four appearances for the US in the Paris Olympics this summer, making it to the quarter-final stages of the games.

However, now that his future at Venezia hangs in the balance, could Rodgers see the youngster as a player who could add the quality he needs to prepare for the Champions League?

You would have to suspect not since the Celtic boss has added Paulo Bernardo this summer but it is one that should be watched closely as the versatile Tessmann now looks to be on his way out.

Celtic face Hibernian in the second round of the Scottish League Cup on Sunday aiming to right the wrongs of last season’s entry into the competition.

In 2023/24, Brendan Rodgers’ side were swiftly knocked out by Kilmarnock at Rugby Park, ending hopes of a treble early.

Thankfully the Bhoys did rebound to win a superb league and Scottish Cup double. The team is in a much better place now compared to 12 months ago and hopes are high of progression into the quarter-finals.

Rodgers has made no secret of the fact that he wants to win back the League Cup and he’s likely to field a strong eleven against today’s visitors at Celtic Park.

Nonetheless, a few changes are expected to freshen up the team and get some much-needed game time into the legs of players who could be key performers over the coming weeks.

Potential Celtic team vs Hibernian

We’ll soon find out what the manager’s plans for Viljami Sinisalo will be this season. The new signing could well be utilised as Celtic’s cup goalkeeper to aid his long-term development. However, if he doesn’t feature today then the chances of Kasper Schmeichel starting every game he’s fit for are strong.

Alistair Johnston’s game time will be managed in these opening weeks of the season after a lengthy summer that included an extended stay at the Copa America tournament. After missing training on Friday, there’s a good chance that Anthony Ralston will come in to replace him.

Rodgers won’t want his defence to be too altered, however, so the rest of the defensive line is likely to include Cameron Carter-Vickers, Liam Scales and Greg Taylor to provide stability.

In midfield, we could see Paulo Bernardo ramp up his minutes in a Celtic shirt this season alongside Callum McGregor and Matt O’Riley, with Reo Hatate available to make an impact off the bench.

Daizen Maeda is another who could do with minutes after returning from injury as a substitute last weekend. Rodgers will want him fully firing for the upcoming derby against Rangers.

Adam Idah could make Paradise return

There’s no need to take the in-form Nicolas Kuhn out of the team, however. He’ll be hoping to continue his excellent summer.

In attack, Kyogo Furuhashi is a doubt after a shoulder injury at Easter Road. He missed training on Friday with Rodgers stating a late call would be made on his fitness. Regardless, it’s a great opportunity for Adam Idah to come in and make a first start since his permanent signing.

Celtic player rejects Tottenham offer to join another London club

Celtic’s young star has turned down Tottenham Hotspur and Bayer Leverkusen to join another London club, according to a report. / Visionhaus/GettyImages

Celtic’s young star Daniel Kelly has turned down interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Bayer Leverkusen, opting instead to join Millwall ahead of the new season.

According to Football Insider, the promising 18-year-old midfielder has made his decision to pursue a quicker route to first-team football in the Championship.

Tottenham Hotspur have been active in the transfer market this summer, securing several talented young players including Lucas Bergvall, Yang Min-hyuk, and Archie Gray.

The club’s interest in Kelly just proves they’re all about picking up young talent with big potential. Despite their efforts to bring Kelly to Hotspur Way, the teenager decided against a move to the Premier League.

Kelly, who made a significant impact at Celtic last season with 28 appearances under Brendan Rodgers, was also on the radar of German champions Bayer Leverkusen.

However, the midfielder chose Millwall for the opportunity to gain more regular first-team experience. This move could be a smart one for Kelly, giving him a chance to show off his skills and stand out in the tough Championship league.

Celtic player rejects Tottenham offer to join another London club

The decision also brings Kelly to Millwall, where he will link up with former Tottenham defender Japhet Tanganga, who joined the club on a free transfer.

The connection with Tanganga could provide Kelly with additional support and insight as he transitions to English football.

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou may have had some influence in the pursuit of Kelly, given his familiarity with the midfielder from their time together at Celtic.

Despite Kelly’s decision to join Millwall, Tottenham are expected to keep a close watch on his development over the coming season. The club could potentially revisit their interest in Kelly next summer if he continues to impress in the Championship.

Even though Tottenham didn’t manage to sign Daniel Kelly, it’s clear they’re still all about developing young talent.

Leeds United and Celtic in transfer race over Liverpool player after Klopp axed one club’s winter deal for ace

The Liverpool star is a reported Celtic and Leeds transfer target.

Leeds United are set to join Celtic in the race to sign Liverpool left-back Owen Beck ahead of the window deadline.

Brendan Rodgers has already affirmed his desire to add to his Premiership champions before the end of the window. They sealed a deal for striker Adam Idah in a transfer worth up to £9.5m including add-ons but they aren’t done, with Paulo Bernardo, Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo also sealed.

A left-back is said to be on the agenda with Greg Taylor left as the only senior option at the club. Alexandro Bernabei acted as cover for a portion of last season before he was loaned out to Brazil with Internacional.

One player they have been linked with is Owen Beck, who shone at Dundee on loan last season from Liverpool. There were murmurings of winter interest and now the Daily Record suggest Celtic are back in for him, stating Rodgers “ tried to land Beck in January but his move was scuppered by then Anfield boss Jurgen Klopp.”

He recalled Beck from Dundee amid an injury crisis and handed him his debut, which meant he couldn’t turn out for a third club, heading back to Dens Park instead but minutes under new gaffer Arne Slot look unlikely. Should they go all-in on the Liverpool player though, “Celtic would face competition to land Beck from English Championship sides Middlesbrough and Leeds.”

Middlesbrough have started the season with a win and a loss in the English Championship but dumped Leeds United out the EFL Cup with a 3-0 win at Elland Road. Daniel Farke’s men meanwhile have two points after draws against Portsmouth and West Brom.

On top of a left-back – with Ajax’s Owen Wijndal someone they have reportedly expressed interest in – it’s claimed “a winger, left-sided centre half and another striker is also on Rodgers’ wanted list.”

As Celtic look to strengthen the team for the upcoming Champions League campaign, they have been told that one player who has been linked to the club is similar to Kieran Tierney.

Celtic asked Liverpool this week how much it would cost to buy the left-back and it seems this morning that that interest is still ‘live’ as the club continue to search for competition for Greg Taylor.

Celtic showed interest in Beck in January but that ended when Jurgen Klopp fielded the youngster in a Premier League game last season.

But now, it seems that Brendan Rodgers still wants the Welshman and pundit, Leanne Crichton, has admitted, that the 22-year-old has the ‘potential’ to be as good as former Celtic hero, Kieran Tierney.

Beck could be Celtic’s Champions League signing

Celtic face competition from Queens Park Rangers for Beck and Crichton believes that if he did make the move to Paradise, he could be sold for the same kind of fee that Arsenal paid for Tierney in the future.

Crichton told The Go Radio Football Show, “I would look at Beck being one similar to a Kiernan Tierney.

“For me, Owen Beck with the potential that he looks to have just now, even if you spent a fair bit of money on him just now, I think your sell on, again, comes into that Matt O’Riley, Jeremy Frimpong and as I say, Kieran Tierney, those types of figures.

“I think he could if he really hits the ground running. And I think Greg Taylor has been outstanding for Celtic and he will continue to be outstanding.

“But I don’t think you can get away from the fact that if you are looking to compete in the Champions League you need a bit of rotation to your squad.

“And that’s probably the one position Celtic didn’t have a natural replacement or one that you could just naturally rotate.”

Owen Beck for Celtic?

Celtic have until the beginning of September to get players in before the transfer window closes and if they could get Beck, that would be a great piece of business.

At just 22, the Liverpool defender still has plenty of time to improve and progress and under Rodgers at Celtic would be the perfect place to do that.

Versatile, Beck isn’t just limited to playing as a fullback as he has also been deployed on the left side of midfield during his fledgling career.

And whilst talking about huge transfer fees is great, Celtic fans just want to see the best players at the club now and Beck would certainly add the quality that Rodgers has been searching for in that left fullback position.

BREAKING NEWS: O’Riley price skyrockets, Wijndal door open and Sanches pitch – Celtic transfer state of play

It looks set to be busy couple of weeks for Brendan Rodgers in the summer market

Celtic have reportedly told Atalanta that their asking price for Matt O’Riley has been raised.

The Europa League winners have been focussed on the Danish international throughout the summer window with a series of bids being kicked out by tge Scottish Premiership champions. The Serie A side are not the only side looking to snap up the 23-year-old with Brighton and Bournemouth among the English Premier League sides showing interest -while Atletico Madrid and Inter are among the long-term admirers.

Boss Brendan Rodgers has insisted that Celtic are under no pressure to sell – and a clear message has now been sent according to Gazetta dello Sport . It is claimed that the Hoops have told the Italian side that they are now demanding €30million (£25million) plus €5million (£4million) in bonuses with the latest offer from Atalanta offering a €27million (£23million) package for the midfielder.

It is noted that Celtic would “not mind” keeping O’Riley for the season and the star is “tired of the push and pull” over the deal. The report also notes that Atalanta are now looking at alternatives to replace Juventus-bound Teun Koopmeiners while still weighing up their next move in the O’Riley saga.

Elsewhere, Alvyn Sanches has been touted as a potential replacement for O’Riley should he leave this summer. Celtic would face competition from Nice, Club Brugge, Anderlecht and Burnley for the £4.3m rated 21-year-old from FC Lausanne-Sport.

And former Hoops’ star Ramon Vega reckons that the experience he picked up in the Swiss top flight makes him perfect for Parkhead. He told The Herald: “Alvyn Sanches is a good prospect, especially for a club like Celtic.

He is a great talent. I have read that Celtic are in the market for a Matt O’Riley replacement. To fill that void will be very difficult. If Celtic signed Sanches now then he could make them a lot of money in resell value in two to three years.”

Elsewhere, Celtic are reportedly keen on a move for Ajax left back Owen Wijndal as they looking to provide competition for Greg Taylor. And the path was cleared for an exit from the Dutch giants earlier this week.

The 24-year-old was dropped to the B team by Francesco Farioli as he looks to clear the decks this summer. Pressed on if he wanted the defender to leave by podcast Tekengeld, the boss said: “The situation is pretty clear. It’s not just us who want to move on players in the market. It was a very difficult decision for me to put him back in the reserve team but the reality is that they are still Ajax players. We don’t know yet if they left at the end of the window or if they will stay with us.”

Atalanta On the Verge of Completing Major Midfield Signing

Atalanta started talks with Udinese for Lazar Samardzic only a few days ago, and it didn’t take them long to strike an agreement. According to Fabrizio Romano, a decisive breakthrough came on Saturday, with the Serbian midfielder on the verge of joining La Dea.

Gian Piero Gasperini has grown tired of waiting for Celtic to relax their stance on Matt O’Riley. Instead, Atalanta and Udinese opened negotiations for Samardzic’s switch to the Gewiss Stadium during the week and almost instantaneously found common ground, with the former agreeing to pay a fee ‘in excess of €20m plus add-ons’ to sign Samardzic.

Barring another last-minute drama, the 22-year-old could become the new Atalanta player by Monday. New Udinese boss Kosta Runjaic omitted Samardzic from his matchday squad for the opening Serie A round as the Friulians head to Renato Dall’Ara to take on Bologna on Sunday afternoon.

The ex-RB Leipzig man should undergo his Atalanta medical later in the day before penning a contract at the Gewiss Stadium. After his move to Inter collapsed at the 11th hour a year ago, Samardzic emerged as a potential candidate to reinforce Milan’s midfield this summer. However, Atalanta have hijacked Rossoneri’s attempt to land the Serbian.

Samardzic’s wasn’t Gasperini’s first option. Yet, Atalanta couldn’t convince Celtic to sell O’Riley despite lodging four offers for the highly-rated midfielder. Samardzic is a decent fallback option, especially as he boasts a wealth of Serie A experience after three years at Udinese.

Serie A side Atalanta have had a very public pursuit of Matt O’Riley over the last month or so, making as many as five offers for the Celtic player.

The Scottish champions have rejected every single one, setting the bar high on their valuation of O’Riley.

That stance appears to have paid off with reports from Italy indicating they have given up on the midfield star to sign Lazar Samardzic from Udinese.

Fabrizio Romano reports that Samardzic will undergo a medical this weekend before sealing a transfer move worth in excess of €20m.

Atalanta had already offered more than that for O’Riley but fell short of Celtic’s expectations, so have apparently turned their attention to a cheaper player in the same position.

Celtic hardline stance provides hope of an O’Riley stay

The Italians have been the most serious suitors for O’Riley’s signature this summer so if they have indeed pulled out it’s a big moment.

It will spark hope that Celtic supporters get to see O’Riley in green and white for another 12 months, which could be huge for the Bhoys’ trophy chase and European ambitions.

Brighton and other English teams are still lurking, however, so there’s still a chance of a late-August move for the Danish international.

However, even the Seagulls have made a move for attacking option Brahan Gruda in recent days, so the status of their O’Riley pursuit is up in the air, too.

We can’t say for certain we’ll hold on to the 23-year-old, but it certainly looks a little more promising than it did this time last month.

Report: Young midfielder rejects Spurs in favour of a move to another London club

Football Insider claim that Celtic starlet Daniel Kelly has rejected Tottenham’s advances and has decided to join Millwall instead ahead of the new season.

Tottenham have been busy in the transfer market

Spurs have secured a number of talented young players recently, with Lucas Bergvall, Yang Min-hyuk and Archie Gray arriving through the door at Hotspur Way.

According to Football Insider, the Lilywhites also tried to poach another talented young 18-year-old from Scotland but their efforts ultimately proved unsuccessful.

Kelly, who enjoyed a breakout season at Celtic last term, making 28 appearances for Brendan Rodgers’ men, was allegedly sought-after by both Spurs and German champions Bayer Leverkusen.

Daniel Kelly chooses Millwall over Tottenham

However, the report says that the teenager has snubbed the Premier League side as well as the Bundesliga outfit, deciding to sign with Millwall instead.

The report explains that the central midfielder did this to ensure a quicker pathway to the first-team, with the Scotland Under-19 international hoping to make a mark in the Championship this season.

Kelly will link up with former Tottenham defender, Japhet Tanganga, this season after the centre-back left Spurs on a free to join Millwall.

Spurs Web Opinion

Postecoglou will have likely had some input on Tottenham’s pursuit of Kelly as the Australian would have been aware of the young midfielder from his time at Celtic.

Spurs will likely keep a close eye on the 18-year-old’s progress over the next 12 months ahead of a potential move next summer.

Keep up to date with all the latest Tottenham news and opinion by following SpursWeb’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts.

Celtic transfer news bulletin as Owen Beck high on wish list, 3 more positions targeted and Kuhn relishes Idah reunion

Owen Beck is still a live option while the Hoops have 3 other positions they want to strengthen

Owen Beck of Liverpool (Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Celtic remain on the trail of Liverpool’s Owen Beck.

The Hoops have been in talks over signing the Welsh defender they tired to get on board in January. Beck, who impressed on loan at Dundee in the first half of last season, remains one of the main names on boss Brendan Rodgers’ wish list for the left-back slot. Liverpool could be willing to sell Beck if the price is right although a loan also remains an option for the Hoops. Rodgers is keen to provide a challenge to Greg Taylor at left-back and tried to land Beck in January. But his move was scuppered by then Anfield boss Jurgen Klopp.

The German gaffer recalled Beck from his loan at Dundee at the turn of the year when he faced a defensive injury crisis. Klopp then gave the 22-year-old his Liverpool debut, which meant he could not play for a third club in the season.

Beck, instead, returned to Dens Park but his second spell with Tony Docherty’s side was wrecked by injury. However, Celtic would face competition to land Beck from English Championship sides Middlesbrough and Leeds. Celtic have expressed an interest in Ajax defender Owen Wijndal, who is also a target for Werder Bremen

Augsburg midfielder Arne Engels is also on Celtic’s wanted list but it is more likely to happen if Matt O’Riley is sold. So far no one has come close to his valuation. A winger, left-sided centre half and another striker is also on Rodgers’ wanted list.

Meanwhile Nicolas Kuhn says Celtic want to make amends for their League Cup slip-up last season by lifting the trophy – along with the Treble. The German winger wasn’t at the club when Brendan Rodgers’ men crashed out at the hands of Kilmarnock a year ago.

After arriving in January, Kuhn played his part in the Double as the Hoops won the Premiership and Scottish Cup. But ahead of Sunday’s second-round clash with Hibs at home, the 24-year-old insists Celtic want all three pieces of silverware.

Kuhn said: “There is a lot of motivation within the squad to do well in every competition this season – starting with this one. That’s the target for us. We’re looking forward to going into this game with a lot of energy and hopefully getting a win.”

Celtic have been boosted by the return of Adam Idah, who signed on loan at the same time as Kuhn last season. The Irish striker is back on a permanent deal after a £9.5million move from Norwich City.

He’s set to start against Hibs, with Kyogo Furuhashi injured. Kuhn said: “I’m so happy to see Adam back because we had a good time together last season. We all hoped he would return and it’s great to see him make the move permanently. Adam offers a lot to us. He is a different type of striker and he scored so many big goals in important games for us.

“It’s always good to have more quality in the squad and he is also a big character in the changing room. Adam is fun to be around.”

Kuhn has started the domestic campaign superbly but admits he can’t wait for the Hoops’ Champions League bid to get underway next month. And the former Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig wide man said: “There are a lot of great teams we could draw. I wish we could play them all. But it would be nice to maybe play against Leipzig or Bayern Munich, two of my former clubs.”

Hannibal transfer update as Celtic targets wants to leave Man Utd

Rumoured Celtic target Hannibal Mejbri has requested to LEAVE Manchester United, according to reports in Tunisia.

Ethan Nwaneri of Arsenal controls the ball against Hannibal Mejbri of Manchester United during a pre-season friendly match at SoFi Stadium on July 27, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

The midfielder hit out at his contracted club in an interview last week, demanding more game time and indicating that he would like to seek a move.

It now appears that the Red Devils are willing to let the midfielder leave, but only on a permanent deal, and with his transfer value sitting at around £7.5m, could the deal be off the cards for the Scottish champions?

Last season, he left for Sevilla on loan in January but his spell in La Liga didn’t go as planned. They had an option to buy the midfielder for £20m up front but declined to make an offer after the loanee reportedly got into a bust-up with one of his team-mates.

Since returning to Manchester, he has still been searching for a move. With him failing to make the United squad against Fulham on the opening day of the Premier League season, time looks to be running out if he is to find regular football this campaign.

Celtic reportedly remain interested in the 21-year-old, with theRangers also keen on him. Considering Sevilla were being asked for upwards of £20m in total for a permanent deal just a few months ago, that £7.5m may now look like a fantastic bargain for the Scottish clubs.

United are not interested in sending him out on another loan, as with just a single year left on his contract, they now look to be attempting to cash in before he can leave for free.

Meanwhile, Elena Sadiku says that she is looking forward to being tested in Celtic FC Women’s game against Glasgow City.

Fabrizio Romano – Atalanta sign midfield star, fee in excess of €20m plus add-ons

Keeping hold of Matt while adding a few more faces would see this go down as our most successful window in years.

First things first, we need new signings, a minimum of three new faces is required. A centre back, a left back and a versatile attacker would be ideal and would help us greatly in the challenge ahead this campaign, particularly in Europe.

However keeping Matt O’Riley would prove to be just as important as any new face arriving at Celtic Park. I’m not saying that would excuse a lack of transfer activity from our custodians, as it wouldn’t. We desperately need fresh faces in the squad, and if we managed to do just that and keep Matt it would have to go down as a very successful window, our best in many a year.

Matt is a superb player and will only get better. He’s a vital part of our team and fits well into Brendan’s system and keeping him will only make us stronger in our quest to be successful this season. And by that I don’t just mean domestically, but in the Champions League also.

I’m not saying we will go far in the Champions League, that would be somewhat ridiculous, but maybe just maybe we could compete a little better than we previously have and actually getting through the group stages. That would have to be seen as major progress.

Keeping Matt is just as important in our ambitions of competing in Europe, do just that and add a couple of new faces and things will be looking a little rosier. If the lowballing tyre-kickers from Atalanta have moved onto other targets after having FIVE lowball bids rejected – none ever meeting the asking price – then they have proved themselves to be time-wasters. Not that we are complaining.

Matt can increase his valuation this season by starring in the Champions League for Celtic. That will also get him a move to a bigger club than Atalanta who have won two trophies in total since the early 1960s.

Fabrizio Romano this evening reports that “Atalanta are set to sign Lazar Samardzić! Deal being sealed as revealed earlier today. Fee in excess of €20m plus add-ons as Samardzić will not travel with Udinese this weekend to undergo medical as new Atalanta player.

⚫️🔵🇷🇸 Atalanta are set to sign Lazar Samardzić! Deal being sealed as revealed earlier today.

Fee in excess of €20m plus add-ons as Samardzić will not travel with Udinese this weekend to undergo medical as new Atalanta player. pic.twitter.com/rSifRUUNkw

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 17, 2024

Chris Sutton says £11m Premier League deal shows Celtic have secured a bargain

Depending on who you ask, Celtic have either massively overpaid or completed a fine piece of business.

Was nine goals in 19 games enough to justify a potential £9.5 million outlay. One that could make Adam Idah, presuming those add-ons can be met, the most expensive signing in Celtic’s history?

Well, maintain the form of his ‘immense’ first spell at Parkhead and the answer to that question will be a resounding yes. It wasn’t just the sheer number of goals – Idah averaging one-in-two during his loan spell from Norwich City – but the timing of them that made the Republic of Ireland international such a hit north of the border.

Stoppage time efforts against Hibernian and Motherwell. That dramatic last-gasp winner in the Scottish Cup final against Old Firm rivals Rangers. Without Idah’s intervention, a season which ended in two trophies for Brendan Rodgers’ side could realistically have culminated in none at all.

So former Celtic hitman Chris Sutton – who previously described the slow pace of negotiations as ‘baffling’ – is delighted to see Idah return.

Late, after all, is infinitely better than never.

Chris Sutton delighted by Celtic’s Adam Idah deal

“Idah’s return is a major positive,” Sutton tells the Daily Record. “It’s funny seeing some fans complaining about the £9.5 million fee after demanding the Parkhead board open the purse strings all summer.

“I don’t think it’s a lot of money in the grand scheme of things. If you think back to 2000, the deals for the likes of myself, Neil Lennon and John Hartson would be worth about £13 million when you consider inflation.

“If you look at football inflation, I’d cost about £150m these days!”

Sutton does have a point.

Pretty much every club you could think of have broken their transfer record in the last few years. The game has changed considerably, even in the five years since Celtic stumped up £9 million for Odsonne Edouard.

And after banking considerable sums following the sales of Jota, Liel Abada and Carl Starfelt – and with Matt O’Riley potentially on his way too – it is surely only a good thing that The Hoops are reinvesting those funds back into the playing squad.

Sutton also highlights the £11 million fee Ipswich Town are paying for another striker based in England’s second-tier.

Yes, Sammie Szmodics won the Championship Golden Boot last season with Blackburn Rovers. But, five years older than Idah and with considerably less re-sale potential, Celtic’s deal may represent better pound-for-pound value.

“The money paid for Idah is just the market right now,” adds Sutton, who spoke in similarly positive tones about the return of Paulo Bernardo. “Ipswich Town are shelling out up to £11m to Blackburn Rovers for Idah’s Ireland teammate Sammie Szmodics.

“Idah is younger and has more potential. And you have to think (he) would flourish under a manager like Rodgers, who is renowned for developing players.

“You only have to look at the improvement of Matt O’Riley under his charge.”

Idah was hugely important in double win

Sutton, by his own admission, was not convinced by Idah initially. But after watching him dominate defenders in the Premiership and showcase his new-found heading ability, those concerns quickly dissipated.

“I had concerns about him not using his physical attributes,” the former Aston Villa man explains. “But he came up with the answers. It was telling he started the decider down at Kilmarnock last term and it was one of the best all round centre forward performances I’d seen in a long time.

“Kilmarnock are a big, strong, organised team under Derek McInnes. Yet Idah absolutely bullied them. His hold up play and movement was always okay but I felt he made great strides, even in just a few months under Rodgers, especially in the air.

“Look at his thumping header at Motherwell. He scored another cracker with his head for Ireland in the summer. It’s another part of his game he has improved and will keep improving under Rodgers because there is still scope to get better.”

Celtic have started the Premiership campaign with two wins, six goals and a pair of clean sheets. Rodgers’ side face Hibernian in the Scottish Cup on Sunday

Celtic make first enquiry to sign “top-class” ace; club now open to offers

After an excellent start to their Scottish Premiership campaign, Celtic have reportedly continued their search for a new left-back, making their first enquiry to sign an alternative to Owen Beck.

Celtic transfer news

The Bhoys have started their title defence in style, securing an opening-day thrashing of Kilmarnock, before a 2-0 victory over Hibernian. Even after winning two from two, however, Celtic could still strengthen in the remainder of the transfer window, with doubts over Matt O’Riley’s future potentially leading to a replacement in the next two weeks. If one does arrive, they will join Adam Idah in reinforcing Brendan Rodgers’ attack.

Welcoming the forward, Rodgers told Celtic’s official website: “We are delighted to welcome Adam back to Celtic on a permanent basis and we are so pleased that he has agreed this new five-year contract with the club.

“The club has done brilliantly to secure this long-term deal. We are investing in a player of real quality who will be crucial for us over the next few years. He is a player who already has given us so much, performing fantastically for us on loan and really delivering for the club and our fans last season.”

Now, having solved their striker problem, those in Scotland have reportedly turned their attention towards a left-back reinforcement. According to Sky Sports, Celtic have made their first enquiry to sign Owen Wijndal, with Ajax open to selling the 24-year-old, in what could be an ideal alternative to rumoured target Beck.

The Bhoys have been linked with the Liverpool youngster, but given competition from Leeds United in the race for his signature, Wijndal could emerge as an ideal option.

“Superb” Wijndal would be an impressive coup

Now 25 years old, Wijndal should be in the prime of his career and may now get the chance to finally realise his potential courtesy of Celtic. After spending last season on loan at Royal Antwerp, it doesn’t seem as though the Dutchman has a place in Francesco Farioli’s Ajax side, allowing the Bhoys to potentially swoop in and secure his signature.

If Wijndal does arrive, meanwhile, he will have the job of competing against Greg Taylor to earn a place in Rodgers’ starting side in what would be excellent defensive depth. Described as a “top-class left-back” by Football Talent Scout’s Jacek Kulig back in 2021, those in Scotland have just two weeks to seal an impressive coup.

A defender capable of making an attacking impact, Celtic would be sealing their transfer window in style by signing Wijndal.

Clubs declare interest in signing Celtic star as key Rangers exit backed on one condition

Latest Celtic and Rangers transfer news and rumours this weekend

Celtic are hoping to win the title once again this season under Brendan Rodgers. They are also aiming to do better in Europe.

As for Rangers, they want to pip their rivals to top spot. Here is a look at some of the latest news and rumours regarding the pair…

Celtic boss Rodgers has said winger Mikey Johnston is attracting interest from elsewhere at the moment. The Hoops have a big decision to make regarding his long-term future at Celtic Park.

In this latest update regarding his situation, the manager said: “I’m open at the moment in terms of where things are at. I gave Mikey his debut back when he was 18 and played him so we’ve got a good relationship and we talk openly.

“I think he’s at the stage, Mikey, where he’ll probably want to play more. But he’s worked hard over pre-season and put himself in a really good position. There are some clubs that have shown interest in him, but we’ll see what happens over the next couple of weeks.”

He added: “He won’t be available for the weekend. He’ll rejoin the training group fairly soon. He had a little problem with his eye socket up a bit deeper back in his face, but hopefully, he’ll be okay fairly soon.”

Johnston, who is 25-years-old, has been on the books at Celtic for his whole career to date. He rose up through the academy ranks of the champions and represented them at various different youth levels as a youngster.

The Republic of Ireland international has made 93 appearances in all competitions and has scored 13 goals. He has also been loaned away to Vitória de Guimarães and West Brom to get game time.

Johnston was a hit with the latter during his temporary spell in England during the second-half of the last campaign. He fired seven goals in 21 matches for the Baggies as they made the play-offs. However, they lost at the semi-finals stage over two legs to eventual winners Southampton and he has since returned to his parent club with his future up in the air now.

Rangers exit verdict

Pundit Leanne Crichton are ‘not in a position’ to sell James Tavernier this summer. The right-back has been a key player at Ibrox over recent years but has been linked with an exit in this window.

Crichton has delivered her verdict on the player on The Go Radio Football Show: “The chat around James Tavernier for example has gone quite quiet. There was a lot of chat about whether he would move on or not, can you imagine before the end of the transfer window that Rangers sell James Tavernier as well?

“At a point where the players on the pitch are not quite good enough and the players that are on the bench are not fit and available, the players that are sidelined don’t appear to be back anytime soon and then you’ve got a player in James Tavernier who’s always fit, always available and always on the teamsheet.

“You can see it happening because that’s the type of decision that would not surprise you at Rangers just now. They’re not in a position to sell him, but they would sell him perhaps to take the money into the club.”

Atalanta admit Matt O’Riley transfer defeat as Italians ‘lose patience’ over Celtic star pursuit

The Serie A side identified the Hoops star as their top target but are said to have now given up

Matt O’Riley

Atalanta have reportedly finally admitted defeat in their bid to land Celtic midfield star Matt O’Riley with the Serie A side said to be on the verge of concluding a deal for their alternative target, Udinese’s Serbia international Lazar Samardzic.

The Italians made FIVE bid for the former Denmark international with the most recent said to be in the region of £23million but the Parkhead side are holding out for more than that. That has seen the Europa League champions “lose patience” with Parkhead powerbrokers and end all interest in the 23-year-old former MK Dons star.

A report on Football Italia claims Atalanta “have decided to drop Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley and instead can conclude their swoop for Udinese and Serbia international star Lazar Samardzic”. O’Riley had been Atalanta’s first choice to replace Juventus-bound Teun Koopmeiners. Samardzic, at 22 – a year younger than O’Riley – is well known to the Bergamo-based club given his time in Serie A.

Samardzic is said to have been left out of Udinese’s squad for their league opener against Bologna with a move imminent. The initial fee is reported to be in the region of £17m but will rise to £23m with various add-ons, making him a cheaper option than O’Riley.

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Rodgers defends Idah price tag and hails ‘great deal’ for striker 

Ireland frontman has re-joined Celtic from Norwich for a fee reported to be worth £8.5million with the potential to rise by £1million more

GOT HIS MAN: Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers (left) gives instructions to Celtic’s Adam Idah (centre) during the cinch Premiership match at Tynecastle Park, Edinburgh. Pic: Andrew Milligan/PA Wire

Brendan Rodgers believes Celtic secured a “great deal” with the purchase of Adam Idah as he thanked the board for showing faith in his call.

Idah has re-joined Celtic from Norwich for a fee reported to be worth £8.5million with the potential to rise by £1million more, after hitting nine goals in 19 matches on loan including a Scottish Gas Scottish Cup final winner.

The figure puts Idah’s transfer in a similar bracket to the club-record fee paid for Odsonne Edouard in 2018 during Rodgers’ first spell in charge.

Many Celtic fans had been concerned over the club’s summer transfer business, which has now seen them replace Joe Hart with Kasper Schmeichel and bring back Idah and Paulo Bernardo following loan spells.

But questions have now been raised over the fee paid to the Canaries.

Rodgers said: “You can never win, can you? I mean, ‘you don’t spend money’, you do spend money, ‘you spend too much’?

“We’ve got a great deal. I know the player that we have here and for me it’s just a case of just getting him moving in the direction that I believe he can move in. He has all the talent, he’s 6ft 3in, quick, strong, his touch is good, he can score goals and he has big moments in big games.

“For me there’s still areas that he can improve on, of course and as a young player that’s what you’d expect, but I really think that whatever money we paid for him, he’s worth every single penny of it. And he’ll demonstrate in the next 24 months that he will be worth a lot more than that.

“I wanted to do everything I could and I thank the board for reaching out and getting Adam here because I think he can really flourish.”

Rodgers had stressed the need for quality over quantity after returning to Celtic last summer while recruitment plans were in place that saw eight players arrive. None of them started in the cup final or in the opening two matches of this season.

“It’s just the attitude to risk,” Rodgers said. “You can sign a player for one, two million pounds, fine. And you might sell them for £10million. But you can sign a player for seven or eight, maybe sell them for 30 to 40.

“It’s the same thing but it’s really trusting the process and trusting a team of people that can work very, very hard and then allowing you to get the players in.

“For example, if you spend £18million and you spend it on nine players, I would hope there’s a possibility to spend £18million on three players.”

Celtic remain in the hunt for new players and their plans will not hinge on the future of Matt O’Riley, who remains the subject of serious interest from Atalanta.

Rodgers said: “We don’t want to lose Matt O’Reilly. But still, we need to strengthen in certain areas. And we have the resource to do that. So, selling players won’t determine what we can bring in.

“The guys here have absolutely been brilliant and as we’ve moved on and connected, it’s been great. But you always have to look to improve.

“Not only that, there are some gaps in our squad where we’re light in terms of numbers, and cover and competition. So, that’s what we have to work very hard to try and achieve by the end of the window.”

Celtic will make a late decision on the fitness of Kyogo Furuhashi for Sunday’s Premier Sports Cup tie against Hibernian after the Japanese striker suffered a shoulder problem in last week’s league win at Easter Road. Mikey Johnston will miss out with a facial injury.

Why Idah’s homecoming for Celtic could bring League Cup home

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – MAY 23: Celtic Manager Brendan Rodgers shakes hands with Adam Idah during a Celtic training session at Lennoxtown Training Centre, on May 23, 2024, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Craig Williamson / SNS Group) (Image: Craig Williamson – SNS Group)

All eyes will be trained on one man this weekend at Celtic Park.

For once it won’t be Kyogo Furuhashi or Matt O’Riley or even Brendan Rodgers himself. Nope, that honour belongs to the £9.5 million man Republic of Ireland and Celtic striker Adam Idah. It’s official Idah is a Celtic player. Did anybody ever doubt, he would be? O ye of little faith.

Idah’s long-awaited homecoming will take place on Sunday at Parkhead against Hibernian in the League Cup as Rodgers’ men go in search of the one piece of silverware the club meekly surrendered last season at the first time of asking in a horror show at Rugby Park against Kilmarnock.

An injury to Japanese talisman Kyogo had the Celtic supporters running around with their heads on fire last weekend, especially after his replacement Mikey Johnston also left the field injured. The 23-year-old attacker is at long last in the building ready to pick up from where he left off last season after his nine goals from January onwards propelled Celtic to a Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup double.

Never fear, Idah is here.

Rodgers said: “As if by magic! I’m absolutely delighted. People talk about transfer fees and everything else – this is a guy who paid that last year. I’m delighted for him because I think that he’s got huge potential and he showed that last season.

“I was so relaxed when he signed because I knew what his talent was. What you never know sometimes in recruitment is mentality. I think what I have seen in my time here is that he proved to me that he has that big-club mentality. I wanted to do everything that I could – and I thank the board for reaching out and getting Adam here – because I think that over the next two to three years he can really flourish and show all of the quality that he has.

“He’s in an environment where he will improve, he’s shown he can deal with pressure in big moments and I’m really excited for him and for the supporters and team. We’ve got someone back who can help us going forward.”

The player revealed that the humungous transfer fee won’t be an albatross around his neck. His manager feels the same. Rodgers believes that Idah has already repaid the multi-millions by scoring the goals that guaranteed Celtic entry into the Champions League league phase proper. Now Rodgers can’t wait to see what value will be placed upon the players in two years. He also reiterated his plan to have two number-one strikers occupying the number-nine role for Celtic.

Horses for courses? You best believe it. The Irishman said: “You can never win, can you? You don’t spend money, you do spend money or you spend too much money. We’ve got a great deal, and I know the player that we have here. It’s just the case of getting him moving in the direction that I believe he can get to.

“He has all the talent, 6 foot 3, quick and strong, his touch is good and he can score goals. Like I said, he has big moments in big games. For me, there are still areas where he can improve, of course, but you expect that as a young player. I do think whatever money we paid for him, he’s worth every single penny of it. He’ll be worth a lot more than that in 24 months.

“I’ll make it clear that I see both of them as number-one strikers. Kyogo in his time here has been brilliant, he has started the season really well. You cannot rely on someone to play to the highest level 55-60 games a season. We want to go deep in as many competitions as we can. That will take us to that number of games. You can’t have just one striker to do that.

“I felt that I wanted another guy who I could call a number-one striker. That’s what I feel I have, it just depends on the game, the energy, the team and the circumstances around the fixture list. Having those two is a big asset for us.”

Idah’s capture is a sure-fire sign yet that the club means business. Yet as the August 30th transfer deadline looms Rodgers insists there is still so much to do. It’s all about the risk and reward for the Irishman. He revealed that he is targeting signings in the Idah and Nicolas Kuhn ilk as they have speed and power which is vital for the club if they are going to be successful in the new Champions League format.

The 51-year-old explained: “I think for supporters and you look at it from their perspective then what they want from the club is two things. One, is your club well run? So, there is no doubt that Celtic is super well run as a club. The organisation is very good. Two, supporters want to have the best team possible on the pitch. That allows them to skip back to each game and be really excited about watching their team.

“I always think that’s the challenge. That is our challenge. To get to the end of this window and have the very best team that we can possibly have on the field. That’s what we want. That’s what the Celtic supporters want. Hopefully, we can do that. I say hope, I want us to be able to do that.

“It is the attitude to risk. You can sign a player for one or two million and you might sell them for 10 million. You can buy a player at seven or eight million and sell him for thirty or forty million. It’s the same thing. It is all about trusting the process and the team of people who work really hard and allow me to get the players in. The Celtic supporters are deserving of that.

“What they invest worldwide in this team in terms of merchandise and everything is incredible. It is our duty to try and get the best team we possibly can on the field. That inspires them to come and watch their team. That’s what we try to do with the style of football that we play but that will always be elevated by the level of player that you have. That is our notion over the final weeks of the window to look to have a really strong team.

“I think I’ve said before but, for example, if you spend £18 million, and you spend it on nine players, I would hope there’s a possibility to spend 18 on three players. Our model is to bring in young players to develop and improve, but you can bring young players in to develop and improve but at a higher level and then you know a little bit more of what you’re getting maybe and there’s maybe a higher ceiling. You might be able to bring in one more or two more at that level. I think we can do that, it’s just about getting the right player.

“If you look at Adam (Idah) and Nicolas Kuhn in particular then two of the key attributes they possess are power and speed. At that level, it is very important. You can have all the tactical ideas in the game and whatnot but at that level speed and power alongside the technique. That is certainly some of the attributes we would look at in the players we bring in.”

The one blip on Celtic’s campaign last season was the concession of the League Cup trophy on that fateful August day at Rugby Park. Rodgers’ Celtic have come a long way since then. A very long way. It still irks him though that the club coughed up a piece of silverware that shattered his unblemished record of never having lost in a cup competition during his spells as Celtic boss.

Rodgers said: “We were disappointed last season and I think I mentioned it before from my first season I sort of had a ball and chain wrapped around me in terms of winning trophies and everything else. That probably allowed us to break free from that in an indirect way even though we would love to have won it.

“Certainly from that point, we have progressed and developed. The team is in a much better place now. My compass is always looking at training. I look this season at how we’ve been training and how we’ve been working and we’ve been able to take that onto the games.

“This is the next game and it is the most important one. We want to get through. There is no doubt, I’ve always said it and we should set that mentality and target that we want to win every trophy. That is something we know we have to work very hard to do. That starts on Sunday.

“I enjoyed winning the League Cup the first time I was up here. It brings a nice edge early on in the season rather than having to wait until later on in the campaign to win trophies. I thought it was really good. It is an opportunity for you to get your hands on a trophy and be a great part of the history of this club. We want to challenge in every competition that we are in. This is our first one here and I am excited by it.”

Rodgers wants the League Cup trophy to come back home. A glorious debut from Idah on his Celtic Park second homecoming on Sunday could very well see that reality move a step closer.