Celtic’s 16-year-old winger Karamoko Dembele caught the eye last season in the final few games of the season. The youngster hasn’t been involved this season so far by Lennon, but his talent was there for everyone to see. Latest reports from the Sun conveys that heavyweight clubs like Arsenal, Paris Saint Germain and Juventus are interested in signing the youngster.
Along with that, German giants Dortmund and a few unnamed Premier League clubs are also said to be in the mix. The clubs that are after him is a testament to his talent and Celtic could have a hard time keeping him at Parkhead for long.
Dembele started training with the first team since Rodgers took over and he has been tipped for greatness for quite a few years. However, he has been patient so far this season as Lennon hasn’t involved him.
What are the chances of Dembele getting opportunities this season?
Celtic have the likes of Mohamed Elyounoussi, James Forrest, Lewis Morgan, Marian Shved and Scott Sinclair who can play on the wings. Even Ryan Christie can play down the left flank. Therefore it is understandable why Dembele might have to wait for his chances. However, Sinclair isn’t likely to stay for long, and Morgan has been below par so far. Elyounoussi meanwhile is only on loan so maybe by next season, Dembele’s path to first-team football will open up.
What now for Lennon?
For now, Lennon needs to make the youngster believe in the project at Parkhead and give him a clear direction about where he is at with first-team football. From the youngster’s point of view as well, he should stick at Celtic for the time being because he is more likely to play first-team football for them. At PSG or Juventus, he might have to wait longer to get some top-flight action. Therefore the player should stick with the Bhoys for now.
However, a club like Dortmund could be an exciting prospect for Dembele as the German heavyweights have picked up plenty of young talents in the past and have inducted them into the first team regularly. Therefore the Hoops might find it hard to keep him if there is a concrete offer from them.
The youngster has his contract in Glasgow until 2021, and maybe Lennon could look to increase that further. However, giving him hope to play first-team football soon will be Celtic’s best chance of tying him down for the foreseeable future.
