Report: Celtic interested in Fulham's Tyrese Francois

By David Walton

January 29, 2019

Celtic are reportedly aware of the availability of young Australian talent Tyrese Francois.

According to Sky Sports, the Hoops are one of several clubs interested in the young midfielder. One of the others, curiously enough, is La Liga outfit and Europa League rivals Valencia.

Francois is out of contract at the end of the season, and is likely to be offered a new deal by Fulham. But Valencia are apparently confident in getting the deal done according to Sky.

Brendan Rodgers has made three signings in the transfer window so far (Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

The young attacking midfielder has played across multiple positions in the midfield slots. This could be something that seriously entices Brendan Rodgers to make a move. Considering Celtic play in an attacking 4-2-3-1 system, Rodgers likes players who can adapt.

The attacker also has some experience training with the Fulham first-team. He was part of the Premier League’s squad pre-season camp in Spain.

Still to make competitive first-team appearance

He’s also made his first-team debut, but not competitively. Instead, he impressed on two occasions against Southampton in friendly matches. After moving to the UK from Australia six years ago, he now holds dual-citizenship.

Yet, if the Hoops are going to make a move, they may want to soon. If Valencia truly are confident they can get their man, it’s going to be a difficult ask.

Tyrese Francois could be working with Damien Duff if he signs for Celtic (Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile via Getty Images)

Regardless of who signs Francois, however, he’s highly unlikely to be featuring in next month’s Europa League clash between Valencia and Celtic. He’s yet to play a competitive first-team game therefore still has a lot to learn.

Should Celtic decide to make a move and go for him, he would likely be sent to work with either Stephen McManus or Damien Duff in the reserve/development squad. Due to his inexperience, it’s difficult seeing him walk into the Hoops team in any position.

But Francois’ future is up in the air. Celtic remain just one of the clubs apparently interested, but whether they make a move for him is still doubtful.