According to the latest reports from Greek media outlet SDNA, Celtic can sign Olympiacos’ right-back Omar Elabdellaoui for €5m. The report mentions that Celtic are said to be interested in the defender, but they haven’t made any moves yet. Celtic’s chances of getting him took a hit as they crashed out of the Champions League qualifiers, but the move can still happen depending on their European future.
Elabdellaoui rose up from Manchester City’s academy and later went on to leave the Citizens as he failed to establish himself with the English club. The right-back has been at Olympiacos since 2014 and has won three League titles with them. The defender returned to England for a brief loan spell with Hull City in the second half of the 2016/17 season. The fullback’s contract with Olympiacos runs until 2021.
Why Celtic need a right-back?
The Norwegian international managed five goals and seven assists in 31 appearances in all competitions last season. Atleast on paper, it would be a good deal for Celtic if they can secure Elabdellaoui’s services. The Hoops have been linked with plenty of right-backs in the last year, and they signed Hatem Abd Elhamed in this window.
However, the club still needs to add one more option to add more depth and competitions for places after the departure of Mikael Lustig and Jeremy Toljan from last season.
Why should Lennon go for him?
The defender has the experience of playing in the Premier League, Bundesliga and the Greek Superleague at the top level with Olympiacos who are expected to win every game they take part in. Therefore Elabdellaoui will bring the much-needed experience and composure to the starting lineup. Elabdellaoui is also a 38 times Norweigian international and has played in the Europa League as well as the Champions League. Lennon will be getting a tried and tested option if he manages to sign him up.
Elabdellaoui has been a bit of a late bloomer, but the 27-year-old is currently at the peak of his powers. €5m for him in today’s market seems more than reasonable. The right-back is an attack-minded fullback, and his standout asset is his pace and dribbling skills. His attacking contribution from last season showcases that he can affect play in the final third.
The defender also showcases impressive work rate and can hold his own in defence as well. We think that he will be a valuable addition to the squad and Elabdellaoui is just the kind of player Celtic need as he can hit the ground running straight away.
