Celtic have huge Doughty oppportunity as Premier League sides take interest

By Euan Davidson

December 31, 2020

Celtic target Alfie Doughty’s future at Charlton Athletic is uncertain, with the January transfer window approaching.

The former Bromley winger is currently out with an injury, but there is still enormous interest in the Londoner’s services. Having just turned 21, Doughty has been on Celtic’s radar for some time.

There is also reported interest from Premier League side Fulham, as well as unsubstantiated speculation revolving around – you guessed it – Rangers.

The Athletic have reported that new Charlton owner Thomas Sandgaard will do what he can to keep him. Charlton’s wish is to tie Doughty down to a new deal, but “no decision” has been made on Doughty’s future.

Celtic target Alfie Doughty against Sunderland / (Photo by Ian Horrocks/Getty Images)

Celtic still keen on winger who “runs like Bale”

Doughty made 29 Championship appearances for The Addicks last season. In those games, he scored twice and laid on 3 assists from the left flank (Transfermarkt).

Celtic have already had bids rejected for the young English wide man, but Lennon still seems keen to land the 21-year-old starlet ahead of a queue of suitors.

Charlton’s assistant manager is under no illusions as to the winger’s quality. Speaking to The Athletic, Johnnie Jackson said:

“The one I always speak to him about — although they’re completely different levels, obviously — was when Bale was at Spurs (the first time) and when he first went to Real Madrid.

“He didn’t overcomplicate it. He knew he was quicker than everyone else. If he had space between him and the full-backs, he’d kick it past and open his legs.

“They couldn’t catch him, so why do you need to do anything different when you’re that quick?”

Signing the next Gareth Bale would rank highly on any Celtic supporter’s January wish-list. Given the competition the Bhoys will have to land Doughty, snaring the League One starlet would be a real coup.

Our current options on the left are on-loan Uruguayan international Diego Laxalt and Scotland left-back Greg Taylor. Very different players, Laxalt is a real threat in attacking scenarios. Taylor, meanwhile, is better in a traditional full-back role.

In an attacking sense, Elyounoussi will need replaced, and Mikey Johnston’s ongoing fitness battles are a long-term concern.

Doughty would provide much-needed competition on the left flank. With all the hype, Lennon will realise the pressure is on to land the Charlton star’s signature.