Celtic attacker Rocco Vata could be allowed to depart the club on loan this summer, but only if he signs a new contract first.
The Scottish Sun report that the exciting Celtic youngster has attracted interest from a number of clubs, including Championship outfit Queen’s Park.
But Vata has less than a year left on his contract and it is reported that the club would like an indication soon whether the winger sees his future at Celtic Park or not.
If Vata leaves at the end of the season the club would only be entitled to a “modest six-figure compensation amount”. If he was to be sold this summer, that fee would likely be a lot larger.
Vata is a current Republic of Ireland under-19 international who featured in four of our Premiership matches last season.
The general consensus seems to be that he’s a player we should be feeling a bit excited about. But, at 18, this may be a good time for him to head out on loan in search of regular first-team action.
With his contract situation still uncertain it is easy to see why the club are wanting assurances before allowing him to make a temporary move.
Celtic do have previous for announcing contract extensions alongside loan moves. When Mikey Johnston moved to Vitoria Guimaraes last summer, he added a year to his deal.
A similar move for Vata may be a good one for all parties. He wouldn’t be signing up for too much longer, while the club would effectively be giving themselves another year to see how he develops before being back in the same position.
Let’s hope that’s the way things work out, rather than us losing another youth talent before they make the grade.
In other news, Brendan Rodgers addresses Reo Hatate ‘red flag’ Celtic concern head-on with reassuring observation
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