According to the reports from the Scotsman, Kristoffer Ajer and Odsonne Edouard have been tipped to make big money moves in the future. Ajer attracted interest from AC Milan and Leicester City in the summer, but he stayed put at Parkhead. Edouard has been a prolific scorer for the Bhoys, and recently Serie A side Lazio were linked with him.
Lennon took a firm stance on Ajer when he was asked about his future in August. The manager had said (The Scottish Sun), ”I’d value Kris a lot higher than that (more than £15m). He has more to come, and I don’t think £15m would cut it, not that we are entertaining any offers. There’s been no contact from Milan.”
Tough times for Celtic in the summer of 2020?
It was understandable why Lennon wasn’t keen on cashing in on his defender as the club already had too many players to replace at that point. We have seen how Celtic have found it hard to retain some of their key players, and once clubs from top five leagues become interested, then the Hoops are likely to find it hard to keep hold of them.
Ajer was an instrumental player at the back end of last season, and as Lennon said, he has a lot more to offer as he is still 23. There is definitely room for improvements to his game. Celtic are unlikely to send any of their key players in January, but the 2020 summer transfer window could be a tough one for them.
As for Edouard, there is a sense of inevitability that he will move on to bigger and better things in the future. The Frenchman has been terrific for Celtic once again this season, and he is easily the undisputed no. 1 striker at the club. The 21-year-old has grabbed 42 goals for the Hoops in 98 appearances along with 17 assists so far.
What now for Lennon?
As mentioned, we think that Celtic will be able to keep the duo until the end of the season. This is isn’t something new for Celtic as they must be used to seeing their star players leave for some of the top leagues in the world. The Hoops need to keep up their scouting work and eye a replacement or two in advance.
It remains to be seen what the players will have to say when a concrete offer arrives from some of the big clubs. Given Ajer and Edouard’s performance, they are likely to draw attention and Lennon should be well prepared for it.
