Celtic’s reported target Issa Doumbia compared himself to a World Cup winner amid ongoing speculation about his future.
Doumbia is valued at £13M and of interest to Celtic, as well as several other clubs in Europe.
His value has risen quickly following a series of impressive performances in Serie B, and have reminded people of a certain footballing superstar.
Do you expect Celtic to break their record transfer fee this summer? (£11m)
Issa Doumbia once compared to Paul Pogba
The 22-year-old’s footballing inspiration is Paul Pogba, as revealed during an interview at the start of the season.
He said: “My father instilled in me the idea of football as a reference, but I take inspiration from Pogba.
“Physical strength and running are my strengths, and if I had to choose an ideal role, I’d say right midfielder in a three-man midfield.”
Eight goals and five assists to his name have helped to back up his claim, with some sections of the media now calling him the ‘Italian Pogba’.
Celtic may have to look at cheaper Issa Doumbia alternatives
Forking out almost £16m for one player is unthinkable for Celtic, therefore, they may need to look in the market for a similar profile.
Money can be spent by the Hoops; this is just never their policy.
The 2026 transfer window is still months away, but what is the number one position Celtic need to improve this summer?📝
Tell us why you picked that position
Cheaper alternatives could include Luke Cundle from Millwall, Hwang In-beom from Feyenoord and Sebastian Berhalter of Vancouver Whitecaps, but even those three won’t cost pennies.
If Celtic truly want to make the squad better, they need to get used to paying higher fees.
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