Former Celtic target Joel Randall signed by Peterborough United

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Long-standing Celtic target Joel Randall has signed for Peterborough United [Devon Live].

The deal is worth £1m plus add-ons, according to Devon Live.

Randall, first linked with the Bhoys in January [The Athletic], the former Exeter City winger was continually talked about in Celtic circles. 6 months ago, Celtic were ready to offer a £1m bid, but seemingly changed their mind [Football Insider].

Randall himself described a move to Celtic as “dream stuff [BBC]. He was subsequently described as the next Ollie Watkins [Devon Live], before injury ruled him out for the rest of 20-21.

Peterborough United, who tend to recruit extremely well, have now landed Randall [Devon Live]. Celtic had reportedly bid for the winger in June, according to Football Insider. Norwich City and Charlton Athletic were also said to be keen on the winger.

The Posh, who aren’t happy with another reported Celtic target Siriki Dembele’s agent [Peterborough Today], have a strong record in terms of developing talent. Ivan Toney is the most obvious example. However, Dwight Gayle, Britt Assombalonga, Simon Davies and Jimmy Bullard have all benefitted from spells with the side.

Clearly Randall, despite being linked to Celtic, is also aware of the Posh’s history of developing talented footballers.

Celtic had the financial muscle to land Joel Randall

You get the sense that if Celtic really wanted Randall, he’d be in the Hoops by now.

Much like some other “targets” of months past, not least Thomas Robert, it seems Ange Postecoglou has a different mindset when it comes to wingers. Or, certainly, wingers that the club had been repeatedly linked with in months prior.

While we could benefit from adding some width to the squad, Postecoglou obviously feels there’s no need to buy for the sake of buying. Yes, there’s a chance Joel Randall could be another who got away from Celtic. However, if the manager feels he can’t contribute right away, there isn’t much point in spending seven figures.

It’s interesting that he’s joined Peterborough United. Perhaps the Posh are preparing for life without Siriki Dembele. The winger, and older brother of Karamoko, has been a prevalent name in Celtic gossip columns over the season.

Either way, it’ll be interesting to see how Joel Randall gets on in new surroundings.

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