Manchester City youngster Patrick Roberts isn’t having the best time of it at Girona, and it’s looking good for Celtic if they want him.
The Englishman is into the final year of his contract at the Etihad. That means that finally the Hoops could look to do a permanent deal with a player who was a constant injection of freshness whilst he was here.
During his time at Parkhead, Roberts managed 79 appearances during his two-and-a-half years in Glasgow. All throughout that period, his footwork was a constant menace for opposition teams up and down the country. Despite only scoring 18 goals, he was simply a joy to watch for supporters.
And now, Celtic simply have to prepare an offer for him either now or in the summer. Roberts is of course available to speak to at the moment to sort out his future. Celtic could therefore do a lot worse than sign him up for nothing.
It’s looking more and more likely that Girona won’t be making a move for him in the summer either. Despite making 12 appearances this season, he hasn’t scored a single goal and only has one assist to his name.
Can’t judge him on Girona spell
In a league as tricky as La Liga, that’s understandable. Girona currently sit 12th in the division, so they hardly dominate games. A current hamstring injury has kept him out since the start of December too. It’ll be tricky for him to make much of an impact between now and the end of the season.
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Of course, there were reported suitors from England before he went to Spain. The likes of Leicester City have kept tabs on him in the past, so Celtic could have some real competition if they decide to make the move.
But Roberts has a strong affection for Parkhead. With the club also closing in on 10-in-a-row, that could be a nice carrot to dangle in front of the Englishman.
Celtic simply have to ask the question of Roberts either now or in the summer. He’s too good a player not to go after, and it would certainly appease the fans.
He’s also at the price-range Celtic like to operate at – free.