As per the reports in Portugal (as claimed by the Daily Record), Celtic remain keen on long-term target Alberth Elis whose valuation has increased drastically following a standout campaign with Boavista. The wide attacker secured a European move last summer from Houston Dynamo and played a key role in Os Axadrezados’ relegation escape with 8 goals and 7 assists in 31 league appearances (stats via Transfermarket).
The Hoops had a bid of around £3m rejected for Elis during his MLS stint. The player himself was keen on a Parkhead transfer and waited eagerly for an improved offer from the Glasgow giants.
“When I first played for Honduras I asked Emilio to recommend me to Celtic. In fact, always ask him that! There are clubs that would be nice to play for because they are always challenging for titles and Cups. I have spoken to Emilio about Celtic and he’s told me they are at another level.”
Revealed the 25-year-old in a previous interview (as quoted by the Daily Record).
The Honduras international never hid his excitement over a potential Celtic transfer and was in close contact with fellow countryman Emilio Izaguirre, a cult hero who made more than 250 appearances in the Hoops’ colours. But destiny took him to the Porto-based outfit and his blistering form is now drawing interest from city rivals Porto as well as Brighton and Watford.
Why Celtic Should Step Up The Chase
Predominantly a wing-forward, Celtic target Alberth Elis flourished across the frontline in Primeira Liga, particularly as a ‘number 9’ alongside Yusupha Njie or Angel Gomes. His versatility should see him making strides in modern-day football and the Bhoys, thus, must step up the chase and outwit the other suitors.
Having said that, the desired amount of around £8.5m is too high for the Scottish side who are planning an overhaul under a new manager following a dreadful 2020-21 season. The pandemic has hit them financially, whereas a few transfer decisions went horribly wrong leading to further crisis. A shake-up is needed all over the pitch, including the attacking third amid uncertainties over the future of wantaway Odsonne Edouard.
Although they are exploring a number of options to succeed the free-scoring Frenchman, the likes of Albian Ajeti and Leigh Griffiths failed to live up to the expectations while spearheading the attack. Celtic, therefore, need multiple reinforcements in the attacking third and the flexibility offered by Elis should be explored if a deal takes place in the forthcoming future.
