With just three days left in the transfer window, it’s fair to say that any solicitations from clubs for players that aren’t on the imaginary transfer list are bound to be received negatively.
This is, in essence, what’s happening at Celtic, with both Lyon and Marseille interested in Moussa Dembélé’s services.
The French striker has become a target for both Ligue 1 sides, with the former of the two settling in comfortably alongside their rivals now that Real Madrid have decided to trigger Mariano Diaz’s buyback clause to help out Karim Benzema under Julen Lopetegui.
Marseille, down their end, while publicly not looking for a striker, have considered the Celtic star as a backup option to the failed Mario Balotelli route, which came to an abrupt end last week when it was announced the Italian would be staying at Nice for a third consecutive season.
According to L’Equipe, these late attempts at gathering information have ‘disturbed’ Brendan Rodgers’ side, who might not have the time to find an adequate replacement should they agree to sell the 22-year-old.
Celtic are said to be aware that Lyon have more money than Marseille at the moment, which is why the latter are more open to a loan with an obligation to buy, which is an option that has already been touted for the past few days.
Down the player’s end, Dembélé is allegedly open to the idea of moving to further his career, but has yet to hold talks with either of the French sides, as his club are yet to give him the green light to do so.
As has been said before, the next 72 hours could be eventful for Celtic.
