According to reliable journalist Pete O’Rourke, Celtic are assessing the option of bringing in Kyle Edwards following his exit from West Bromwich Albion. The youngster had limited first-team minutes last season and has already been released by the Baggies as soon as his contract expired at the Hawthorns.
Celtic have are in talks to sign former West Brom winger Kyle Edwards following his departure from the Hawthorns. #CelticFC #WBA
— Pete O’Rourke (@SportsPeteO) July 6, 2021
The 23-year-old winger joined the academy ranks of West Brom at the age of six and eventually made his senior debut three years ago in a Cup outing. A loan spell with Exeter City helped him develop his skills in the Football League and the attacker was deployed sporadically by the West Midlands side in 2019-20.
Although he has his contribution in West Brom’s return to Premier League, Edwards was handed only 114 minutes of top-flight football (as suggested by Transfermarket) during the previous campaign. They are now back in the Championship after an immediate demotion and have decided to part ways with the prodigy for his little impact in the first-team setup.
Celtic, meanwhile, are pursuing new names to bolster the current squad as Ange Postecoglou is keen on doing key business prior to their crucial Champions League qualifier against Midtjylland later this month. The Hoops have roped in Liam Shaw and Osaze Urhoghide from Sheffield Wednesday but, at the same time, are expecting some high-profile exits in the coming days.
Why Celtic Should Rope In Edwards For Squad Purpose Only
Mohamed Elyounoussi spent a couple of seasons at Parkhead on loan from Southampton. The Norwegian has bid an emotional farewell a week back and the Bhoys, thus, must find an alternative down the left-hand flank. Edwards does not hold a similar experience or prowess and, therefore, should only be considered as a sporadic option over like-for-like replacement.
The right-footed wide attacker prefers to operate from the left as an inverted winger. He has immense pace and swift footwork, however, his lack of productivity in the attacking third remains a massive concern. The ex-England youth international lacks accuracy while whipping in crosses, also his shooting and decision making require significant improvement.
Having said that, Celtic should give it a go and rope in Edwards on a Bosman. They have to pay a minuscule development fee for the player which should not be a problem if a deal is agreed upon with his entourage in due course of time.
