Celtic could receive a bid from AEK Athens for 25-year-old midfielder Olivier Ntcham, following an update from Greek journalist Giannis Chorianopoulos on Twitter.
The Lowdown: Celtic prepare for high-profile 2021/22 exits
As the Hoops begin life under newly appointed manager Ange Postecoglou, multiple senior exits are expected within the Parkhead ranks.
Odsonne Edouard has been heavily linked with moved to West Ham and Leicester City [Football Fancast], whilst defender Kristoffer Ajer has attracted attention from Zenit St Petersburg and Bayer Leverkusen coincidingly [The Celtic Star].
However, could former Manchester City youth prospect Ntcham be the first casualty of Postecoglou’s reign following recent reports?
The Latest: AEK Athens look to put together Ntcham bid
Presently, AEK Athens are looking into the possibility of putting together a financial package to lure Ntcham away from Glasgow.
Well-respected Sportime.gr reporter Chorianopoulos elaborated on Twitter, stating:
“AEK Athens officials are now checking the option to make an offer to Celtic for Olivier Ntcham!”
Previously, it was thought that Celtic were ready to let the anchor man depart for Greece on a free transfer [The Scottish Sun]. However, it now seems the Scottish giants feel the Frenchman warrants some sort of fee to boost the coffers.
The Verdict: Hoops must secure a fee
Certain to leave the Hoops after four topsy-turvy years at the club, it is a wise move for Celtic to try and generate some money for Ntcham's signature.
Although much-maligned in Scotland, Ntcham has notched a commendable 37 goal contributions in 147 outings for his current employers; 24 goals and 13 assists [Transfermarkt].
Most memorably, his famous winning goals against Lazio in the Europa League and against Rangers in the Glasgow Derby will live long in the memory of the Celtic support.
Looking ahead to pre-season, the Bhoys will be hoping to reinvest any funds generated in to acquiring a suitable replacement for Ntcham - losing him for free would make finding a replacement that much harder.
In other news, Celtic are considering a swoop for a Manchester City defender.