Report: Bournemouth have won the race to sign Celtic star Ryan Christie

By Euan Davidson

August 31, 2021

Bournemouth have all but signed Celtic star Ryan Christie, according to Sun reporter Alan Nixon.

The transfer specialist, with over 100,000 Twitter followers, stated the Cherries were “winners” in the race for Christie, who has 20 Scotland caps. Bizarrely, the forward’s contract runs out in January, leaving Celtic with few options.

While Burnley seemed like a strange fit for Christie, they are at least a Premier League club. Bournemouth, managed by ex-Chelsea midfielder Scott Parker, have designs on a return to the top-flight.

The club narrowly missed out on a Premier League return, with Brentford besting the south-coast side in the play-offs [BBC].

Christie could leave for as little as £1m. Signed for around half that in 2015, the Scotland international spent loans with Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Aberdeen, before breaking through at Celtic.

And what a breakthrough it was. In 38 Celtic games during 18-19, Christie scored 11 and set up 9 more [Transfermarkt]. In total, the forward has amassed 41 goals and set up 44. That’s excellent production.

Much-discussed Celtic departure for Ryan Christie looks to be on, destination Bournemouth

It’s seemed likely that Christie would try his luck in England eventually. However, for Celtic to barely make a profit after 6 years at the club is a sore one.

The challenge will be in replacing him. The Bhoys have options at the number 10 slot, primarily David Turnbull and Tom Rogic. Youngsters like Ewan Henderson and Luca Connell could make first-team progress before too long.

However, his positional versatility leaves problems. Christie has played on either wing, to very decent effect. Benfica youngster Jota looks to be on his way to Glasgow, but it seems likely Celtic will look to bring in further cover.

A player so suited to Postecoglou’s system, it’s a shame that Christie will leave the club. Granted, his last performance in a loss to Rangers was by no means breathtaking. The majority of the time though, he’s a goal threat, with an eye for a killer ball and excellent work-rate.

Bournemouth might’ve just bagged an absolute bargain.

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