According to the reports in Belgium as cited by the Scotsman, Celtic are likely to miss out on the signing of Zulte Waregem’s winger Theo Bongonda. Celtic were reportedly in the race for him along with the likes of Brighton, Mainz and Hertha Berlin. The winger had an impressive campaign in the Belgium top flight as he contributed with 14 goals and 14 assists in 39 appearances.
Bongonda is close to moving to Belgian heavyweights Genk for £6m. Celtic scouts were keeping track of him after his rich vein of form, but now it seems like Lennon has been dealt a blow in his pursuit of the winger.
Everything might be hunky dory at Parkhead right now as they recently wrapped up yet another treble, but Celtic will have a tough job at hand in the transfer window.
Why Celtic need a left winger?
The Hoops need to go through a rebuilding phase as quite a few players’ contracts are expiring. Celtic recently triggered an extension to Scott Sinclair’s contract who played as the left winger for the most parts this season. The Englishman might have contributed with a good number of goals but he looks to be on a downward trajectory. Also, Lennon used him sporadically since he arrived in February.
The club is also set to lose the likes of Timothy Weah and Oliver Burke, and the Hoops would have loved a long term left wing option. The likes of Lewis Morgan, Jonny Hayes and Michael Johnston have looked average at best, and they don’t seem to have that quality to take this team to the next level.
Player’s strength
Bongonda would have been a top signing as he showcases impressive pace and dribbling skills. The price tag also looked within reach to us at least as Genk are likely to sign him soon for £6m. The 23-year-old is currently in the prime of his career and his best years are yet to come. We feel that the Bhoys should have really pushed on to bring him to Celtic Park.
A missed opportunity!
His skills and agility would have made him a tough player to handle for the opposition defenders. Moreover, his attacking returns suggest that he can find the right passes and finish off moves in the final third. There is no doubt to us that Bongonda would have been an upgrade over Sinclair who has become quite predictable and he often cuts a frustrating figure on the pitch. This is definitely a lost opportunity for the Hoops as they missed out on a long term left wing option.
