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Celtic linked with move for young Scottish striker

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Celtic have been linked with a move for James Graham of Ross County.

The 15-year-old striker has already spent time with Liverpool and Manchester United and is unlikely to remain at the Dingwall club for much longer.

Graham is from the Isle of Lewis but seems to be developing a reputation that has sent scouts to the north of Scotland to see what the fuss is about.

The Sun reports:

SunSport understands (Manchester) United have made it clear they would like him to return after the pandemic lockdown has lifted. But it’s thought they now face competition from the Hoops, as well as Premier League rivals Wolves.

Isle of Lewis-born Graham – who also spent time at Liverpool’s youth academy in October – only joined the Staggies last year. But he has earned rave reviews playing for their Under-16s and 18s sides.

Speaking to the Stornoway Gazette last October after a spell on trial at Liverpool County coach Jim Kelly said:

This is a great opportunity for James. After having such a good season for us this year in our U16 team and then being introduced to our U18 team it’s been a fantastic period for him.

James has consistently shown his qualities, which has been recognised by Liverpool. It is a real compliment to the work being done in our academy that James has been given this chance.

Whether he moves to Glasgow, Manchester or Liverpool it’s bound to be a big change for Graham.

Celtic can point to the progress made through the ranks by Kieran Tierney and Callum McGregor but in England there is a greater structure to Academy football. Beyond u-18 level there is no organised football for Celtic prospects other than playing in the Glasgow Cup.

Ross County will be due a Development fee for Graham but may be open to an offer from Celtic that sees him stay with the Dingwall club on loan as Celtic did when they initially signed Ryan Christie.

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