Former English Premier League star urges Kris Ajer to sign on long-term at Celtic

By John McGinley

March 4, 2021

Former Newcastle and Fulham star Lee Clark would love to see Celtic reach a level where holding on to players such as Kris Ajer is possible.

Ajer has been linked with a move away from Celtic due to his expiring contract and apparent unwillingness to sign a new deal at Celtic Park.

His current deal at Celtic Park comes to an end in 2022, meaning this summer is the logical time for the club to sell him to a more illustrious league.

Clark however, who signed and worked with the defender at Kilmarnock, would love to see him stay at the Bhoys for a long-time.

Speaking to The Daily Record, Clark said: “Kris has got all the attributes to play at the very top and I’m not surprised when I see him linked with the biggest clubs in Europe, whether that’s down here in England or Italy.

“I know different clubs have been mentioned so it’s massive for Celtic to tie him down but it’s difficult because players naturally want to play Serie A or the Premier League.

“Kris is an outstanding player and I really feel for the Old Firm because it’s tough for them to compete with smaller clubs in bigger leagues.

“They have such a worldwide fan base and when I managed up there it really hit home how big the two clubs are but they can’t compete financially with the giants in Europe.

“I just hope they can get to the level where they can be competitive in the Champions League and keep a hold of the likes of Kris Ajer.”

Celtic have a tough job to replace Kris Ajer

Ajer has been one of Celtic’s best performers this season. Some would argue he’s been our player of the year.

I know that’s not exactly a great accolade give how poor the team have been collectively, but he has grown to become an integral part of the side.

Regardless of how much the club receives for him during the summer transfer window, he’ll be very difficult to replace.

Kristoffer Ajer before a Celtic match / (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)

Celtic are facing a massive defensive overhaul with Shane Duffy also likely to leave the club at the end of the season.

With Christopher Jullien out injured until well into the new campaign, our recruitment for the central positions is of the utmost importance.

Hopefully targets have already been identified.

In other news, Olivier Ntcham’s first start for Marseille didn’t go to plan.