Quite a few media outlet reported that Celtic could be in for Victor Wanyama in the January market. Still, the move was always unlikely to go through given the demands of Tottenham. Moreover, Celtic had ample cover in midfield, so they didn’t need to go out of their way to secure the signing of their former midfielder.
It was quite clear that Spurs wanted to get rid of Wanyama in the January window. Spurs had even agreed on terms (GFFN) with Ligue 1 strugglers Amiens, but the move fell through in the final hours as Spurs wanted more for their midfielder. As things stand, Wanyama is still a Tottenham player, but things could change quickly after the recent reports from French media outlet GFFN.
France Football report that Tottenham are discussing a mutual termination of Victor Wanyama's contract with his agents; if this occurs, he could join any club of his choosing for free https://t.co/9Gw3fhQZkY
— Get French Football News (@GFFN) January 31, 2020
If Wanyama goes on to terminate his contract, then Celtic could be in the running to sign him. Moreover, this would play out perfectly for Celtic as they could bring him on a free transfer. The Hoops will need to agree on personal terms and wage demands, but we believe that Celtic can get this deal over the line.
Why would a free transfer for Wanyama be handy for Celtic?
Lennon had talked earlier (Daily Record) that midfielder’s affordability could be an issue and now with the latest update, Celtic can get their hands on him for free. As mentioned, Celtic don’t desperately need to add a defensive-minded midfielder given the way Scott Brown is going and other options they already have. However, it cannot be denied that Wanyama will add more experience, quality and strength in the middle.
Wanyama’s presence could be instrumental if Celtic are to get a good run in the Europa League. The Hoops will be expected to come up against some tough opponents, and Lennon might want to play the game with two defensive-minded midfielders. Given Brown’s and Wanyama’s experience, they would be solid cover to the defence line, and Wanyama also can go on marauding runs from time to time.
The Athletic’s Tottenham Hotspur correspondent, Charlie Eccleshare had claimed earlier that Wanyama’s prefered destination is the Serie A. So maybe after his contract termination, the Kenyan midfielder might want to see whether he could get a club in the Italian top flight. However, Celtic’s previous connection with the 28-year-old should help them in luring him at this time. It remains to be seen though whether Tottenham would go on to terminate his contract. Until that happens, Celtic have no chance of signing him.
