One of the surprising Celtic targets of the January transfer window is unknown quantity Vakoun Issouf Bayo.
Several reports had Celtic interested in doing a deal worth £1.75million for the forward. Dunajska Streda, however, don’t want to sell at that price.
His manager, Peter Hyballa, has claimed his star-forward will only leave the club for serious money in January. This could be a blow to a Celtic side who always like to get players as cheap as possible.
Bayo is, however, Streda’s star player, and they’re closing in on a serious title challenge over in Slovakia. This, combined with Bako’s overall talent, has made the club extremely reluctant to sell.
Speaking in the Daily Record, Hyballa claimed that whilst the interest doesn’t surprise him, he’ll be doing all he can to keep him.
“If Celtic are serious and make a serious offer then it is something to consider because they are a wonderful club.
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“I’m the coach of Dunajska Streda and that is my only interest and we must also look after ourselves. Bayo is a very good striker and I hope he stays with us.
““I told our general manager that I want to work with him at least until the end of the season but I’m not surprised Celtic are aware of him because big clubs have so many scouts.”
The club easily have the money to thrash out a deal
To put this into some perspective, Celtic can sign Bayo on any day they want. They have the cash to do a deal, and are also in need of another striker with Leigh Griffiths out.
Timothy Weah is set to join up with Celtic soon on a six-month loan deal, but that’s only temporary. The club need to start putting plans in place for the next couple of years, and Bayo appears to be someone who could be a big part of that.
Streda, however, have their own situation, and it’s important not to forget that. They’ve yet to win the Slovak Super Liga in the 25 years it’s been running, but have a golden chance this season to lay down a serious challenge.
Fortunately for Celtic, however, Slovakia isn’t a footballing country littered with money. Their best players can be swayed for just several millions, and that’s what puts this deal totally in the Scottish Champions’ hands.
Any plans to land him on the cheap, however, appear to be down the drain. Streda won’t accept anything other than top dollar, and the ball is now in the Hoops’ court.