According to the reports from the Scottish Sun, Celtic have not made an approach for Rennes’ midfielder James Léa Siliki. Reports from France did the round earlier that the Hoops had made an enquiry about the highly rated French midfielder. However, the Scottish Sun has poured cold water to those rumours.
The 23-year-old has been linked with the likes of Watford and Porto as well. The midfielder made 34 appearances in all competitions last season and was used almost all across the pitch in various roles. Siliki showed his versatility by filling in as a central midfielder, left winger, left back and defensive midfielder.
Why are Celtic after a midfielder?
The Hoops failed to complete the signing of David Turnbull earlier from Motherwell. The club is also set to lose Olivier Ntcham in this window. Lennon recently lashed out at Ntcham for his comments regarding Celtic. Therefore it seems more likely now that he would be transferred away this summer from the club.
Tom Rogic’s future is also uncertain, so one can clearly see that there is a need for a dynamic midfielder at the club.
Can Siliki be that player for Celtic?
The midfielder showed his versatility last season, and his impressive overall attributes made him a good fit on various fronts for Rennes last season. The 23-year-old works his socks off in almost every game, and he would provide the legs for Celtic in midfield. His ability to carry the ball and deliver some dangerous crosses allowed him to be used on the flanks as well. His perseverance and tenacity without the ball also make him a reliable defensive option.
There is no doubt that a player like Siliki would have improved Celtic’s squad. He could have been an ideal replacement for someone like Ntcham, who is likely to depart from the club in the summer.
What should Celtic do?
Latest reports mention that Celtic are yet to make an approach for the midfielder so Lennon should jump at the opportunity of bringing in a player of Siliki’s quality. He is unlikely to come in cheap so that could be a concern for the Hoops. However, if Celtic can sell Ntcham for a decent sum, then they should be able to fund the signing of Siliki with that money. His versatility, work ethic and on the ball qualities would make him a standout option at the club and Lennon should make a bid for this French midfielder.
