Celtic are eager to tie Dedryck Boyata up on a new, long-term contract amidst interest from Lazio this summer. According to recent reports, the Hoops have a battle on their hands to retain the services of the Belgian international with the Serie A side ready to stump up a fee in the region of £6m for his signature. Moreover, the Italian team are prepared to pay the Bhoys centre-back a staggering annual wage-packet which could reach up to £1.3m after tax.
Boyata has just one year remaining on his current deal with the Glaswegian giants so Brendan Rodgers is keen on extending his contract in order to fend off strong interest from other clubs in this post-season. Some sources are now claiming that Lazio has still not made contact with Celtic over a potential summer move for Boyata. It has also been suggested that the Scottish champions are eagerly trying to convince the defender to pen a new deal and extend his stay at Celtic Park.
The Belgian talent has been in scintillating form for the Hoops over the past few seasons which has not gone unnoticed by other clubs. The 27-year-old had featured in 39 matches for Celtic last season and has 3 goals and 3 assists to his name in all competitions. Boyata has also done well for the Belgian national team in the ongoing 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia where he has helped his nation earn two wins on the spin against Panama and Tunisia respectively.
The Parkhead- based outfit had another successful campaign and were able to bag a domestic treble last season. However, their performance in the UEFA Champions League has not improved over the last few seasons. Hence, Rodgers’ team can’t afford to let go of their most influential players as it will significantly deplete their squad ahead of the new season.
Although, the Glaswegian giants could look to use the money generated from his potential sale to strengthen other areas of their squad, yet it is a gamble not worth the risk. The Bhoys boss Brendan Rodgers needs to devise a transfer plan and work accordingly. If the Scottish champions do end up parting ways with the Belgian defender, then they would also need to bring in a suitable replacement who will be capable enough to bolster their backline significantly.
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Boyata should definitely look to stay at Celtic Park and opt against a move to some other destination this summer as he is already getting regular game time at Celtic Park which might help him earn some more silverware in the coming years. It remains to be seen what lies ahead in the future of the Belgian international and whether he ends up parting ways with the Bhoys this summer.
