Odsonne Edouard has often been the difference-maker for Celtic in the final third this season. The French attacker has 27 goals in all competitions along with 19 assists. With stats like those, it is no surprise that he has been linked with some of the top leagues of the world. Not too long ago, reports from Daily Mail had emerged that Everton will look to sign Edouard.
A fee in upwards of £25m will be a record transfer in Scottish football history, and Edouard looks very much on course to smash that. Former Leeds United striker and pundit Noel Whelan recently claimed that a £30m fee would be a good deal for Everton.
Whelan believes £30m for Edouard will be an excellent deal for Everton
Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan said, “I’d say it was about right, I’d say between £35-40million in this going market. I think that’s absolutely fine, how old is he, 22? You’re getting a bargain; he’s going to be with you for four years, you’re going to get the best out of him. A price of £30million? I’d take that all day long.”
Neil Lennon had already indicated (Daily Record) to the Celtic fans that he doesn’t expect Edouard to stay on for years like Henrik Larsson. Hence, a move in the summer is realistic. Given the riches of the Premier League, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Edouard make a move south of the border once this season ends.
The striker is under contract until 2022, and maybe the Glasgow giants can look to extend his deal further by a year or two. That would allow the Hoops to demand a more substantial transfer fee in the future. However, it seems unlikely to us that Edouard would commit to a new deal now that the season is drawing to an end.
Why can Edouard fetch around £40m?
Edouard is not just a goalscorer as he contributes immensely for his team with his intelligent movement and link-up play. That is why he continues to rack up assists. The French u-21 international has now formed a strong partnership with Leigh Griffiths which has produced impressive results for Celtic. Given his age, Edouard’s best years are yet to come.
Whelan is right that Edouard can fetch up to £40m in the current transfer market and Lennon should look to maximise the club’s gains as much as possible. Selling him would certainly jeopardise Celtic’s chances of winning ten titles in a row, but a top offer could be too tough for the Hoops to ignore in the summer. Celtic should be ready with a few replacement options in case Edouard departs from Parkhead in the summer.
