Olivier Ntcham’s potential departure from Celtic could hinge on a major European signing this summer. Marseille are said to be interested in the 23-year-old midfielder but will need to move on one of their current big-hitters first.
The Daily Record reports that the Ligue 1 side are bracing themselves for a major £30million+ bid from West Ham for their midfielder Morgan Sanson. His move would likely free up the funds for new manager Andres Villas-Boas to make the move for Ntcham who is said to be high on his wishlist.
Celtic signed the French under-21 international two summers ago from Manchester City. He has gone on to have a decent enough time of it without ever hitting the heights he’s threatened to on one off occasions. Celtic are said to want between €15-17million for the midfielder who featured 37 times last season.
On his way out
It does seem like Ntcham’s days at the club are numbered. The reports of interest from Marseille are clearly genuine and when a major side like them enters the market they usually get their man.
If the Frenchman does move on this summer he will be one of the first Celtic players to net a big profit without really scaling any heights. Ntcham was signed for a reported £4.5million fee from Manchester City in 2017. He’s gone on to delight and frustrate supporters in equal measure.
When the midfielder is on his game he’s arguably the best player in the team. He possesses terrific ball control, a good passing range and final product. However, those displays have been consigned to the bigger games in the main. Ntcham has failed to show the same enthusiasm in the majority of matches against the league’s pluckier teams.
His likely departure will give the Celtic board food for thought though. Signing attractive young prospects for decent fees can pay dividends in the long run. Even if the player doesn’t quite hit the heights expected, his reputation alone could help him get a move to another club.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
