Report: Celtic make approach to Newcastle about Christian Atsu after January deadline day interest

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Celtic have contacted Newcastle United about signing winger Christian Atsu this summer, Sports World Ghana have reported this week.

The outlet believes the 60-cap Ghana international is on his way out of the Magpies with less than a year left on his current contract and that a switch to the Scottish champions is very possible.

It comes after Sky Sports reported on January deadline day early this year that Neil Lennon had tried to land the 28-year-old, who decided at that point to stay at St James’ Park and fight for his place.

He joined Newcastle for £6.2m in 2017 (Sky Sports) and has gone on to make 120 appearances for the club.

His direct goal contribution has not been particularly impressive there, with just 18 in total during that time, made up of eight goals and ten assists (Transfermarkt).

However, able to play on either flank as well as through the middle, he’d provide more depth to Lennon’s attacking options where Mohamed Elyounoussi and James Forrest don’t have much competition.

These players are prime picks in the manager’s starting eleven but even the best players need to be pushed to maintain standards and consistency.

Atsu has the experience and profile to threaten their places.

Celtic have already brought in a number of international talents over the past few months.

Of our summer signings, only David Turnbull has not won senior international caps with his country and that seems like a matter of time.

Atsu fits the mould and could find exciting form in the Scottish Premiership, having played in English, Portuguese, Dutch and Spanish top-flights previously.

In other news, the financial details of Shane Duffy’s move to Celtic have been reported.