Celtic, the Champions of Scotland, might have roped in three new names so far compared to Rangers’ eight signings, but they have already spent more than £10m this summer and are likely to tie down a few more within the next month. The Old Firm rivals have locked horns for transfer targets over the years and might once again challenge each other to secure the services of Irish sensation Charlie Allen.
According to the Belfast Telegraph, a host of clubs are monitoring his progress including Celtic and Rangers. The Linfield wonderkid made his senior debut last season in an NIFL Premiership tie against Coleraine at the age of 15 years, 5 months and 5 days and was included in the club’s 25-man squad for Tuesday’s Champions League qualifier versus Rosenborg.
Although he was not involved in that fixture, the midfield prodigy is tipped to break into the Blues’ senior side this season with plenty of minutes at Windsor Park.
“He’s still young, developing and has a lot to learn, but I know, in time, Charlie won’t see his 17th or 18th birthday at Linfield. He will be elsewhere. Our plan is to guide him the best way for the next 12 months when he is here. He is still at school and hopefully, when he does go he will make the right choices and have an incredible full-time career.”
Linfield boss David Healy spoke highly of the Northern Ireland U16 international amid interest from Premier League heavyweights Liverpool, Leicester City, Tottenham Hotspur as well as the Manchester giants.
Allen featured against Motherwell and St Johnstone in a couple of pre-season friendlies and should consider a move to Scotland to pursue his football dreams.
Why Celtic Must Tie Him Down In The Forthcoming Future
The youngster, on his debut, set it up for teammate Daniel Reynolds to find the net. This shows his sheer talent and Neil Lennon, lauded for nurturing the youth, would be delighted to have Allen in the ranks. The Linfield prospect prefers to play as a ‘number 10’ and the presence of Tom Rogic and Ryan Christie would help him learn the Scottish game more, settle in at Parkhead and eventually provide cover the pair in the long run.
Why Rangers Must Tie Him Down In The Forthcoming Future
Rangers, on the other hand, are well equipped in central midfield as well as down the wide areas. But they require an outright midfield attacker even though versatile Scott Arfield and Greg Stewart could be deployed in a similar role for the time being. Steven Gerrard, nevertheless, must seek a long-term solution and Allen, a connector between the attacking third and deeper midfield, would strengthen the Bears furthermore in their bid to regain supremacy in the Premiership.
