AEK Athens have called off their interest in Olivier Ntcham after claiming Celtic wanted a fee for the midfielder.
Ntcham has had a nightmare year, falling out the picture at Celtic, barely getting a look in during a loan stint at Marseille with his Greek escape route now looking to have ended.
Earlier this month it seemed to be established that Celtic were prepared to let the 25-year-old leave on a free transfer or for a token fee in order to get his wages off the pay-roll.
Greek clubs aren’t known as big wage payers with Celtic able to attract Vasilis Barkas from AEK last summer on a four year contract.
Different reports have emerged from France and Greece about a deal for Ntcham but tonight The Sun reports:
AEK ATHENS have dramatically pulled out of a move for Olivier Ntcham after claiming Celtic now want a fee.
The Greek giants originally believed the wantaway 25-year-old midfielder could be available on a free transfer with the Hoops deciding on a further 12-month option on his contract.
But after several weeks of talks and agreeing personal terms with the Frenchman, they are now exploring other targets with local reports insisting Celtic are looking at a sale.
Unless some sort of compromise can be established Ntcham will be expected back at Celtic where he has a year to run on his contract.
After failing to make an impact at Marseille and breakdown on a move to Greece it is difficult to see what other options could be open to the French u-21 internationalist.