Celtic have not only maintained their almost decade-long supremacy in the domestic circuit but also enriched the academy ranks with extensive scouting as well as an esteemed youth setup. They are hailed for promoting the youngsters to the first-team environment and backing them with senior minutes to flourish at the highest level.
Most of them benefitted from an early spell at Parkhead before plying their trade abroad and eventually emerge as renowned names of world football while representing European powerhouse clubs. However, the recent trend of losing teenage prospects before they turn professional is alarming amid lucrative offers from the clubs in England and the rest of Europe.
A report from The Scottish Sun suggested Bayern Munich’s interest in 16-year-old Barry Hepburn a few days ago, and according to the same outlet, the Hoops are now set to be raided by Manchester City as they aim for a swoop of Josh Adam in the summer transfer window.
Rise To Fame And Early Recognition
Adam gained recognition last year while representing the Bhoys in the prestigious Marc Overmars tournament held in Holland. He was sensational throughout and won the player of the tournament award for his excellence in the middle of the park. His skills and attributes grabbed the attention of many including the Sky Blues who have been concentrating on intensifying their academy setup for quite some time now.
The youth prodigy turned 16 in February, and thus, is not qualified yet to pen a professional deal before next year. City are willing to take advantage of the same by roping him in for a mere cross-border development fee as compensation, compared to a decent chunk of money if Adam had signed a contract.
An Alarming Trend For Celtic?
Hepburn, on the other hand, is set to reunite with ex-club mate Liam Morrison who left the Hoops a year ago for Bayern Munich. David Moss, the former Celtic recruiter turned football agent, is believed to be behind both the deals – something that has led to this growing concern for the Glasgow giants.
The Citizens have a pool of young talents in their ranks but, at the same time, struggled to offer them enough senior experience due to persistent transfer spending. Jeremie Frimpong, on the contrary, has been decent since completing a summer swoop from Manchester City and all these youngsters, therefore, must analyse every aspect and possibility before parting ways with their boyhood club.
