Reported Celtic target Lawrence Shankland is apparently being watched by 15 clubs, according to Ayr United manager Ian McCall.
The Championship side sit an impressive second in the division this season. Behind only Ross County, they’ve had Shankland to thank for banging home a stunning 28 goals in 26 appearances.
With a goal tally like that, you would expect interest in the young Scottish forward this month. McCall spoke to the BBC and confirmed that he wouldn’t be letting any of his players go this month – including Shankland.
And, opening up on the interest received, McCall stated that as many as 15 clubs have approached United regarding his services.
“I think Lawrence will just wait until the end of the season. (Approaches have come from) Scotland, England and Holland.
“The chairman could’ve made back half the money he’s put into the club (if he sells top assets).”
MORE CELTIC STORIES
Celtic don’t need Shankland and won’t in the summer either
He’s certainly a talent, there’s no doubt about that. Shankland’s record in the Championship is second to none in the division. He has a better strike-rate than any forward in the country, and that’s testament to him.
Of course, even the likes of Martyn Waghorn looked a player in the Championship. It certainly doesn’t tell the whole story, and a move to Celtic would be a monumental step-up for the Ayr man.
The club, in the summer, will have three strikers at its disposal. Odsonne Edouard, Vakoun Issouf Bayo, and Leigh Griffiths will all be signed up. If interest is seriously high in Shankland, then there’s no point Celtic breaking the bank to get him.
You have to imagine if the Ayr man was signed, he would go straight into the reserves. It wouldn’t be the right move for the club or the player, and if a transfer war is looming, Celtic should just avoid.
The club have certainly been adding a Scottish core to their side these days. The likes of Callum McGregor, Kieran Tierney, Scott Brown, Leigh Griffiths, and Craig Gordon are valuable members of the squad.
Shankland, however, shouldn’t be joining them.