Celtic are reported to have a ‘real opportunity’ to sign Alfie Doughty after new owners took over at Charlton Athletic.
Lee Bowyer claimed that Celtic had had an offer rejected for the left-sided player who broke into the first team last season as Charlton were relegated after one season in The Championship.
The new owners will have to decide whether Doughty is of move value to their bid for promotion or whether they should cash in with a fee likely to be over £1m.
New Charlton Athletic owner Thomas Sandgaard told @BenRansomSky the club will no longer sell their academy products on the cheap.
Celtic are interested in Alfie Doughty and, while he will listen to offers, Sandgaard says he will only sell him if it “financially makes sense”.
— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) September 25, 2020
A stumbling block in Celtic’s pursuit of the player had been the uncertainty surrounding Charlton’s takeover situation, which has now been resolved today.
It’s understood no further bid has been received by Charlton at this stage, but Celtic’s interest remains strong.
— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) September 25, 2020
This is a clear change in stance from Charlton, who had previously said that Doughty is not for sale.
Now the takeover is complete, Celtic have a real opportunity to go back in for him.
— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) September 25, 2020
A left wing-back appears to be Celtic’s transfer priority with Greg Taylor struggling to switch from left-back to a more advanced role.
Wing Jonny Hayes released at the end of last season and Boli Bolingoli sent out on loan Neil Lennon is very limited for options on the left hand side.
Celtic have already spent the best part of £13m to sign Vasilis Barkas, Albian Ajeti and David Turnbull with loan fees paid out for Shane Duffy and Moi Elyounoussi.
