Celtic-linked Ola Solbakken has yet to make his mind up over his next move despite heavy speculation over a move to Roma, according to Gianluca di Marzio.
It had been reported last month that Solbakken had agreed to sign for the Serie A side [Il Romanista]. That came after Celtic had been linked with a move for the play as a backup plan to Jota [Scottish Daily Mail, print edition, 27/04, back page].
However, respected Italian journalist di Marzio has reported that no agreement has as yet been reached. Instead, the player is said to still be pondering offers over where to go next.
It’s also said by di Marzio that Bodo/Glimt want to keep Solbakken in Norway until after the Champions League qualifiers this summer. Regardless of whether he signs a pre-contract elsewhere with his contract running out in December.
That could represent a problem for Ange Postecoglou, who wants his signings in as early as possible [The Scotsman]. The Celtic boss is targeting getting players in the door before the start of pre-season. Given you would expect Bodo/Glimt to reach at least the playoff round, that would keep Solbakken in Norway until after the Scottish Premiership season has gotten underway.
Celtic are reportedly closing in on a permanent move for Jota [Sky Sports]. If that deal does indeed get finalised, it’s unlikely that Solbakken will be at Parkhead.
Ola Solbakken to Celtic not yet out of the question
It’s naive to say that any move for Solbakken now has no chance of getting over the line. There’s a real opportunity to nab one of Europe’s hottest prospects for a nominal fee.
Celtic bagging UEFA Champions League football is crucial here. Had we failed to win the league, then we wouldn’t even be mentioned as in the running here. But we can offer something Roma can’t – and it’s that very competition.
Granted, Roma will be involved in Europa League football whilst of course holding a spot in one of Europe’s top 5 leagues. But even so, being at Celtic would give Solbakken the opportunity to showcase his skills on a greater scale. If he was to perform well in the UCL, his stock suddenly grows even further.
Celtic have already shown themselves to be a solid proving ground for Europe’s top youngsters. So many talented players have come to Parkhead and won themselves big moves elsewhere. Just look at Jeremie Frimpong, Moussa Dembele, and Odsonne Edouard in recent years.
If Solbakken was to sign for Celtic, there’s a strong chance it would send his career to new heights. Especially at only 23 years of age when he has so much development within him.
We’ll see what happens here, but it appears that reports of a move to Roma are a touch premature.
In other news, MLS hero discusses his £300 Celtic move in 2018; why things didn’t work out
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