After Neil Lennon’s comments today, it’s clear that strengthening our midfield is not a huge priority unless it involves a blockbuster move for Victor Wanyama.
The Hoops manager was asked about a potential deal for the Kenyan at today’s AGM. His reply, as reported by the Daily Record, was the following:
“Would I like Victor in the building? Of course. But it may not be an area we are looking to add to because of the way the midfield is functioning.
“We are looking at the forward area, that may be the one area we are looking to strengthen.”
The fact he has a desire for Wanyama would suggest that he would be happy to take him if he becomes available, but clearly he’s on the hunt for strikers in 2020.
Would there be any point in taking the big Kenyan if we couldn’t get him permanently either now or at the end of the season? Wanyama will be into the final 12 months of his Tottenham contract in the summer (Transfermarkt). There’s a real chance there we could splash out and sign him outright if we decide to go down that route.
And if we manage to strike lucky and sign him, there’s no need for follow-up our summer interest in Turnbull.
The Motherwell midfielder failed a Celtic medical in the summer after a hidden injury was discovered (CelticFC.net) and he has been injured ever since.
Clearly our interest in him was huge given it got to that stage, but it appears his services won’t be needed anytime soon. Although it would be interesting to see if he can return to form in the second half of the season.
We might not need either
Even with the Kenyan, there’s still a debate over where a new midfielder fits into the team. If Wanyama was to take anyone’s spot, it would be either Scott Brown’s or Callum McGregor’s. Could you really drop either?
What chance would Turnbull have of getting game-time if we went back for him?
Yes, there is the argument that Turnbull is an up-and-comer and offers longevity but Wanyama is levels above his current status and if he isn’t guaranteed a start at Celtic Park, the case for the Motherwell man is even flimsier.
Of course, circumstances may change. Lennon may decide the middle of the park needs strengthening, be priced out of a move for the Kenyan and reignite his Turnbull interest.
January will be an interesting month, especially if cash-rich clubs come calling for our best talent. Right now though, it appears there’s little intention to follow up on our heavy summer interest in the Motherwell man.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
