Celtic are not operating alone when it comes to Jens Berthel Askou. The reaction from within Scottish football has already defined the level the Motherwell manager is being placed at.
Martin O’Neill’s interim Celtic tenure ends in May and the Parkhead club have a decision to make on who will take over from the legendary Hoops boss.
But it seems that Celtic target Jens Berthel Askou was also wanted by another SPFL club this season as Mark Guidi reveals how Motherwell sent that club packing with a strong message.
Would you take Jens Berthel Askou in the event that Martin O’Neill leaves Celtic in the summer?
Celtic given next manager hint after Aberdeen’s Askou knock back
Aberdeen moved with intent in their search for a manager and identified Askou as their preferred option, as Mark Guidi explains how that process did not progress beyond initial contact.
Guidi told The Go Radio Football Show, “I think Dave Cormack had gone through a number of managers, whether it be interims or permanents, I think on at least one occasion, he tried to get Derek McInnes back.
“Yeah, on at least one occasion. I believe that Aberdeen’s number one choice this time round was Jens Berthel Askou Motherwell and Motherwell made it known that they were wasting their time coming after him.”
“And they’ve ended up with Stephen Robinson, albeit it should have been done weeks ago.”
Motherwell made their position clear early and without ambiguity. There was no pathway offered for negotiations and no indication that Askou would be made available.
Celtic must recognise the level attached to Askou
That response is not typical within the Scottish Premiership. Clubs rarely shut down interest at such an early stage without leaving room for movement.
Aberdeen were forced to move on and finalise an alternative appointment. That outcome reinforces that Motherwell are simply not going to allow Askou to leave without a fight.
Celtic now know that they are chasing a candidate whose current club has already made clear is not available.
That shifts the dynamic for the Bhoys and a move would require a clear decision backed by intent, and money. Celtic have plenty of cash, but the intent could be in question going by past managerial moves.
Celtic are now dealing with a profile that has already attracted strong attention and firm resistance. That combination places Askou in a category that means their next manager will not be signed easily.
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