Olivier Ntcham is unlikely to leave Celtic before tonight’s transfer window deadline, according to the Daily Record.
Sky Sports reported yesterday that Newcastle were keen on taking the Frenchman on loan. They also stated that the player himself had let Celtic know he wanted to leave the club.
However, with the Record also citing Marseille’s apparent interest, they’re now reporting that the midfielder is set to stay at Celtic until the end of the season.
The transfer window for Scottish clubs closes at midnight tonight. That’s an hour after the English leagues, who must have their business wrapped up before an 11pm deadline.
Ntcham has seldom been used in recent weeks after a disappointing start to the season. The former Man City prodigy has featured on 23 occasions this season. However, he hasn’t been seen in seven of our last eight matchday squads [Transfermarkt].
If Olivier Ntcham were to leave Celtic, nobody would be grieving
For a period under Brendan Rodgers, Ntcham had plenty of backers. Even last season under Lennon after he netted in Lazio, the supporters had fallen in love with him once again. But since then we simply haven’t gotten anywhere near enough from him.
Ntcham himself will know he’s underperformed. With only one goal and one assist all season, there’s not a lot to like about what he’s bringing to the table. He isn’t providing anywhere near enough from a Celtic fan perspective.
It’s also worth noting that Ntcham’s contract runs until the summer of 2022. Where once we had our next potential eight-figure sale, his value is now quickly decreasing. Selling now would perhaps be our best chance to get maximum value if clubs are interested.
Sky reported yesterday that Celtic would like an option-to-buy included in any deal. That would make sense from the club’s side of things and, perhaps more importantly, shows how he’s viewed at Parkhead.
With a midfield containing the likes of Ismaila Soro, Callum McGregor, and David Turnbull respectively, there’s no room for Ntcham. Fans have just about had it with his lack of affect on football matches.
We should be striving to make moves now to get him out the door. Should he stay for a further six months? Don’t expect any major impact.
In other news, Neil Lennon has hinted when a decision could be made on three Celtic players.
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