Odsonne Edouard is still on AC Milan’s radar. However, a move for the Celtic star depends on where the club finish in Serie A.
Stefano Pioli’s side led Serie A for months, with Juventus falling away during their own 10IAR hunt. However, a collapse in the latter end of the season leaves the Rossoneri fourth [Sky Sports]. If they were to remain in Champions League contention, targets like Fiorentina striker Dusan Vlahovic or Torino’s Andrea Belotti remain the preferred signings [Tuttosport].
If Lazio or Napoli nudge Milan out of the top 4, however, Odsonne Edouard is the “less expensive” [Tuttosport] option, as the Italian outlet charmingly puts it. At this stage, Celtic would likely accept a bid in the region of £20m for the ex-PSG striker, despite a £35m fee being mooted earlier this year [Express].
Given that AC Milan were our Europa League opponents this season, Edouard has seen plenty of the Rossoneri. The club were also heavily linked with Kristoffer Ajer [Daily Record]. The successful pursuit of Chelsea defender Fikayo Tomori seems to have put that speculation to bed, for the mean time.
Odsonne Edouard seems destined to leave, but Celtic need a good deal
There are factors against Celtic getting a massive fee for Odsonne Edouard. His contract runs out in 2022, meaning we’re in a more difficult negotiating position. Furthermore, his “struggles” this year have probably decreased his value, despite scoring over 20 goals for a second consecutive season [Transfermarkt].
Consider also the stature of the Scottish Premiership. Clubs are still convinced they can land bargains here. That’s primarily because we collectively undervalue our players. Stuart Armstrong, John McGinn, Virgil van Dijk and Kieran Tierney all should’ve been sold for much more.
It leaves a bitter taste in the mouth though, the idea that our star striker is an “inexpensive” option for a club not much better than we are. They do need an Ibrahimovic back-up, granted, and given Ibra’s injury problems and age, the next AC Milan striker will most likely see plenty of action.
Is that what Odsonne Edouard wants, though? Or rather, is guaranteed playing time non-negotiable for the French striker? If so, it’s a commendable attitude, and one that’ll serve the youngster well.
With the Olympics coming up, French Eddy has another opportunity to impress on a big stage. The smart money says he’ll take it, and that could strengthen Celtic’s hand.
At least, that’s what the board will be hoping.
READ MORE: “Play him then”; Celtic fans despair at latest update
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