Celtic had too much on their plate in the summer transfer window as they had to replace quite a few outgoing players. Their recruitment drive started slow, but they managed to make some quality additions in the last week of the window. One player who has shined so far is Southampton’s Mohamed Elyounoussi. The 25-year-old joined on a season-long loan spell.
The winger had previous experience of playing in the Champions League with FC Basel but he never really managed to make a breakthrough in Southampton’s lineup. The Saints didn’t have any qualms in letting him leave on a season-long loan, and Elyounoussi has gone on to score seven goals and produced six assists in 12 appearances for Celtic.
The winger is set to miss a few weeks of action due to injury after the international break. There have been rumours that Southampton would demand £10m (Daily Record) for the winger next summer if Celtic want to sign him permanently.
Lennon remains coy on signing Elyounoussi permanently
Neil Lennon though indicated that Southampton haven’t quoted a figure to him yet. The Celtic boss said, ”It’s certainly not been discussed with Peter Lawwell. Elyounoussi is just in the door, but he’s done very well. Whether we can do a deal in the summer, we’ll need to wait and see. It will come down to affordability. He’s enjoying it, and we’re enjoying having him. It’s worked out great for both parties so far.”
Should Lennon look to pay £10m if Elyounoussi is available for that kind of fee?
The winger has impressed with his intelligent movement and ability to stretch play. He is a livewire when he gets on the ball, and the Norwegian international is a busy player who always looks to make things happen. Elyounoussi is still in his early days with Celtic, and he has already settled in well. We expect him to hit another gear from here onwards.
The Hoops will likely part ways with Scott Sinclair soon, and Lennon would definitely need a long term left-winger at the club. Elyounoussi is 25, and he is currently in the prime of his career. If the winger carries on with his current form and improves further over the course of the season, then the Bhoys should look to pay £10m for him.
Celtic might have to break their all-time transfer record to bring him, but the Norwegian has so far shown impressive signs. For now, we would like Lennon to wait and watch him further.
