Celtic forward Rocco Vata has hit the headlines over the last few days as his contractual situation remains unresolved.
Putting that to one side, the Republic of Ireland Under-21 international managed to score his debut goal for the Hoops last weekend in a comprehensive victory over Buckie Thistle in the Scottish Cup.
Brendan Rodgers was clearly delighted with his contribution on the day and stated post-match: “For Rocco, he’s played before. He has potential, he needs a lot of work. He has some really good attributes, he’s strong, he’s got decent pace and he wants to score goals.”
Nevertheless, he is free to leave the club for next to nothing this summer and has admirers in Italy, with Bologna and Como showing interest in his services.
Vata is available to discuss a pre-contract with any foreign club; nevertheless, Celtic have now communicated their intention to try and extend his stay at Parkhead [Football Scotland].
His future at the Bhoys is now firmly under the microscope amid the backdrop of a lack of viable options in attack for Rodgers.
Hyeongyu Oh and Daizen Maeda are currently absent due to their involvement at the AFC Asian Cup with South Korea and Japan.
Rocco Vata’s father explains Celtic star’s international choice
Born in Glasgow, 18-year-old Vata is eligible to feature for Scotland, Albania, Montenegro and the Republic of Ireland and he has opted for the latter so far during his career [Transfermarkt].
Former Celtic star Rudi Vata, who is of course the father of Rocco, has shed some light on why his son plays his international football for the Boys in Green.
He stated on Irish radio station Off The Ball: “In my life experience, I’ve never told Rocco which kind of national team he should choose.
“I know that Ireland knocked on our door, he was a young boy, and I said that is a great opportunity. Of course, I have great memories with Ireland and his grandmother is Irish. The whole family, they are Irish-connected from my wife’s side.”
He later added on whether he could change allegiance: “The question is, who is prepared to offer him the best kind of project? Who is going to convince (Rocco Vata), it’s Rocco to make that decision.”
Celtic’s Rocco Vata is an exciting prospect
Making his way in the game, Vata is a highly-rated prospect who shone for Celtic B this term before receiving his first taste of senior action under Rodgers.
In 22 appearances for the Hoops’ development squad, he has hit 13 goals across his involvement the Lowland League, UEFA Youth League and SPFL Trust Trophy, per Transfermarkt.
Whether he receives further first-team opportunities is anyone’s guess; however, Celtic may be forced to think outside the box if they fail to bring in a striker before the end of the window.
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