According to a recent report from Corriere Dello Sport as cited by Sport Witness, Celtic have reportedly made a big offer for Atletico Madrid’s youngster Rodrigo Riquelme. Reports from Marca around a few days back had emerged that Celtic along with Rangers are interested in signing him. The 19-year old’s contract is running down in the next few months, and he would become a free agent soon if Atletico fails to get him on a new deal.
One of the reasons why Riquelme isn’t keen to sign a new contract with the Spanish giants is because he doesn’t see a path towards first-team football. The 19-year-old made his debut this season in the La Liga where he appeared as a substitute against SD Eibar. However, that remains his only appearance in the Spanish top flight as Riquelme has primarily been playing for Atletico Madrid’s B side.
The winger also has a £30m release clause included in his current deal with Atletico Madrid. That showcases how highly the Spanish outfit rates him. It remains to be seen whether this so-called big offer from Celtic would be enough to lure the 19-year-old ace to Scotland.
Do Celtic need wingers?
Mohamed Elyounoussi is currently on loan with Celtic. Signing him permanently would cost them quite a bit. The club also parted ways with Scott Sinclair and Lewis Morgan in the January transfer window. Hence, we expect the Hoops to look for a new winger for the upcoming season.
What can Riquelme offer?
The 19-year-old has been compared with Antoine Griezmann. Riquelme is versatile enough to play in various roles in the attacking third, but he is primarily a left-winger. The Spaniard might already be popular with Celtic as he played a significant role in demolishing Rangers’ youth side in the UEFA youth cup this season. Atletico Madrid’s youngsters won that tie by four goals to nil and Riquelme went on to provide three assists.
Riquelme’s standout assets are his pace and finishing skills, and that is why he can play as a secondary striker as well. He is still raw but with a lot of potential. The fact that he can be signed on a free transfer makes him an exciting option.
Marian Shved and Daniel Arzani are similar kinds of players, but they have barely featured for the Hoops. Hence, Riquelme might be slightly sceptical about moving to Parkhead. The physical nature of the Premiership might not suit his playing style that well. So it remains to be seen whether Lennon would be able to get his signature or not.
