One of the ongoing transfer themes for the rest of this season will be whether Celtic can make loan moves for either Fraser Forster or Mohamed Elyounoussi permanent.
The pair – who are both on loan from Southampton – have impressed greatly in their first couple of months in Glasgow. Both have already shown their quality in Europe while also helping the club on the domestic front.
And like numerous other loan stars before them, their permanent future will be speculated on non stop.
Relegation could help Celtic’s case with Forster and Elyounoussi
Fans hoping for the club to sign loan stars permanently is not a new thing. The same applied for previous heroes like Craig Bellamy, Robbie Keane, Paddy Roberts and Odsonne Edouard who were all adored by the support.
Sadly, we only ever managed to complete the permanent signing of one of those four – showing just how hard it is to get marquee deals over the line.
Southampton’s current plight in the English Premier League could have an effect on next summer’s business too. If the south-coast side – who currently sit 18th – succumb to relegation then they may be more inclined to get rid of some prized assets.
Both Forster and Elyounoussi are likely to be on hefty wages at St. Mary’s and the opportunity to move them on to a willing buyer like Celtic may prove too tempting to refuse.
Of course we would still have to pay a healthy fee for either. But we’ve shown we can do it before with Edouard. It’s one to keep an eye on over the next eight months or so.
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