The unforeseen suspension of the game in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic has delayed Celtic’s title triumph indefinitely. Still, the Hoops are working tirelessly behind the scenes and identifying transfer targets to bolster themselves for the forthcoming future. They are on the verge of conquering the Scottish crown for the ninth successive season although that has been shrouded in controversy.
Having said that, Celtic are sweating over the future of their in-demand striking sensation Odsonne Edouard who is reportedly in Arsenal’s radar over a potential summer switch. A few names have popped up recently as potential successors, and according to journalist Ignazio Genuardi, as reported by Get French Football News, the Bhoys might attempt to rope in ex-Sunderland prodigy Josh Maja in case they fail to keep hold of their 28-goal talisman.
Maja, 21, left the Stadium of Light for Bordeaux on January 2019 as he opted not to extend his stay in Wearside. He had a host of suitors back then including Celtic following an exquisite scoring run in the English League One. However, the youngster opted to join the French outfit who were tracking his development for a while.
Why He Would Be An Exciting Signing For Celtic
The Super Eagles international has fired in 8 goals and assisted thrice in 24 outings altogether prior to the lockdown (stats via Transfermarket), thus showcased his scoring traits after a slow start to life in France.
He is now back in Celtic’s radar, but the champions might have to undergo a transfer battle with their famous rivals Rangers who are also in the hunt for a new ‘number 9’ amid exit talks surrounding Alfredo Morelos.
Netflix’s Sunderland ‘Till I Die made him a familiar face in the English circuit. The Black Cats could have gained promotion by the end of the previous campaign if Maja had stayed, but his controversial departure and the failure of Will Grigg as a like-for-like replacement led to a play-off final heartbreak versus Charlton Athletic.
Celtic, meanwhile, have preferred the youth in recent years over experienced individuals. The rise of Moussa Dembélé and Edouard of late depicts an exciting blueprint that speaks volume. Maja ticks many boxes to script a success story at Parkhead and his pace, positioning and the presence of mind in and around the box should see him flourish as one of Europe’s most prolific goalscorers under the guidance of Neil Lennon.
