Charlton owner Thomas Sandgaard has stated that Celtic target Alfie Doughty won’t be sold to another club this summer.
Celtic failed with several attempts to nab the Addicks youngster in the summer (London News Online), with the Hoops, in the end, moving for Uruguayan Diego Laxalt of AC Milan.
However, the club’s decision not to offer more and sign Doughty before last week’s deadline has led to a worrying window of opportunity for rival suitors. Celtic can’t do anything to stop another English club from swooping in before the EFL window closes tomorrow at 5pm.
But Sandgaard has provided a reassuring message for Celtic supporters as he confirmed his star man wouldn’t be going anywhere due to his importance. He did, however, tell London News Online that he wants Doughty to sign a new contract.
“Alfie Doughty is someone we expect to be staying. He’s part of the future of the club. I’m not really interested in selling at this point. No I don’t see that [Doughty going before the deadline]. He’s too important.
“Of course. That would only be the right thing to do (signing Doughty on a new contract). I think he’s doing great and seems very comfortable at the club. It’s a really good foundation for talent like that.”
So many pre-contract opportunities for Celtic in 2021
Charlton not selling Doughty is a big boost for Celtic. It allows us a path to offer the player a pre-contract in 2021, and finally allow him to make his way to Celtic Park for nothing or even a cut-price deal in January.
Of course, that’s also dependent on what else is on the table that may tickle his fancy. Championship outfit Luton Town have reportedly seen an offer rejected for him too (The Herald). That would be a step-up from League One level and is a pathway that so many English talents follow.
However, it’s not just Doughty who Celtic could be eyeing for a freebie next year. Bright Osayi-Samuel (Scottish Sun) and Preston North End’s Ben Davies (The Sun) are two players Celtic have been linked with whose deals run out next year.
It would be extremely surprising if the Hoops didn’t manage to bring one to the club. Preferably of course we managed to bag all three, as they would add cover in three different positions.
This January is going to be extremely interesting as the Hoops will likely need to plot a rebuild ahead of next summer. The first steps towards that will have to be taken in just three months’ time.
For now, of course, the focus is on ensuring Doughty doesn’t go anywhere else. Sandgaard has put Celtic at ease in that respect.
In other news, there have been no reported offers for a player Lennon is said to have wanted during the transfer window.
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