Celtic were linked with Yannick Bolasie in 2019; now he's available for nothing

By David Walton

July 13, 2021

Back in the summer 2019, Celtic were one of several sides linked with a move for then Everton talent Yannick Bolasie [Goal].

The tricky winger had been struggling with injury problems in Merseyside and was looking for a fresh start. In the end, he would bag a loan move to Sporting Lisbon in Portugal whilst Celtic failed to strengthen at right-wing.

Fast forward two years and the prospect is there for Celtic again should they want it. Bolasie is now a free agent after his Everton contract expired. Two years ago, the Toffees were looking for around £5m for the player’s signature [Goal]. Now, he can be snapped up for no fee at all.

During his Crystal Palace days between 2012 and 2016, Bolasie was one of the most exciting players to watch in the English Premier League on his day. His dribbling ability was lightning quick as he caused any full-back in the division a problem.

Recently, he’s undoubtedly slowed up. At 32, he’s coming into his final years at the top level. But Bolasie showed during a six-month loan spell at Middlesbrough last season that he could still tear it up in the Scottish Premiership if Celtic made a move.

Bolasie bagged three goals and four assists in his 15 Middlesbrough appearances last season. More importantly, he looks to have overcome his injury problems too after playing a run of games with them between February and May.

Celtic could still do with Yannick Bolasie in their squad in 2021/22

There’s no denying Celtic would be a more exciting side with Bolasie in it. Despite his game slowing over the last few years, he’s still an extremely talented dribbler of the ball and is still a regular goal contributor.

Consistent game-time over the last two campaigns with Lisbon and Middlesbrough also bode well for where he’s at fitness-wise. At 32, he’s not done and dusted yet, and a move to the Scottish Premiership would surely attract him.

There’s a reason Bolasie cost £25m when Everton signed him from Palace [BBC]. Ange Postecoglou could very well be the man to rediscover that reason as the player ponders his next move.

As of yet, only Reading are reported to have launched an official bid [Reading Chronicle]. It looks like Bolasie’s days in the EPL are over. But whilst that may be a blow to him, it’s a boost should Celtic decide to move. After all, we can compete with Championship sides if we’re willing to commit to a deal.

As of yet, there have been no reports that Celtic’s interest in Bolasie has reignited. But we need another option down the right flank, whilst he can also compete on the left side.

It’s an option for Celtic at the very least. It feels a waste not to take a look.

In other news: ANGE Postecoglou’s playing style is beginning to excite Celtic players