English side stepping up interest in ex-Celtic youngster after Lennoxtown exit

By Lewis Laird

July 11, 2022

English League One side Portsmouth are reportedly interested in signing former Celtic youngster Jonathan Afolabi.

The 22-year-old striker joined the Hoops at the beginning of Neil Lennon’s second tenure in charge at Parkhead from English Premiership side Southampton.

Afolabi was part of an influx of young Irish signings arriving from south of the border and was expected to be one for the future.

The Ireland under-21 internationalist spent time out on loan in the Scottish lower leagues with Dunfermline, Dundee and Ayr United.

His latest loan spell came during the second half of last season, as he played his part in Airdrieonian’s promotion play-off push.

Despite having several loan spells, the striker didn’t do enough to break through at Celtic and was expected to be released upon the end of his current deal this summer.

Whilst there has been no confirmation of this from Celtic, Afolabi appears to have been on the lookout for a new club and has spent some time on trial down south.

According to Hampshire Live, the frontman has been on trial at English League One side Portsmouth and impressed during his time with the club, grabbing a goal and an assist in a friendly against Qatar SC.

Pompey boss Danny Cowley is now stepping up his pursuit of the Irishman and is interested in signing Afolabi this summer.

After a disappointing four-year stay at Parkhead, it was definitely the correct choice for all parties to move their separate ways.

And it appears that decision is already paying off for Afolabi, who would be closing in on a new home less than a month after his Celtic release.

Portsmouth could provide the young striker with the chance to kick start his career and help Afolabi showcase his full potential.

We wish him all the best for the future, and hopefully, he is able to succeed at his next club!

In other news, James Forrest talks up the advantages of unique Celtic pre-season experience.