Tell most clubs that you’re refusing to sell a player they want and their natural reaction would be disappointment.
Roma, however, aren’t like most clubs. Rather than disappointment, they’re quite pleased that Celtic have refused to sell Odsonne Edouard in January.
The Serie A side are reportedly keen on the Celtic forward, who has nine goals in 17 games in all competitions this season.
They believe that he could be an excellent long-term replacement for Edin Džeko. Unfortunately, they can’t afford him until next summer.
AS Roma Live explain that’s because of ‘budgetary reasons’, with Roma a little short on cash for transfers in the winter window.
That will change come the summer when they’re hopeful that several sales, particularly Patrik Schick to RB Leipzig, can raise the funds they need.
Thus, Celtic’s refusal to sell in January has been met with delight by the Italians, as not only will it stop Edouard’s other suitors from swooping in, it’ll also give them time to raise the cash to try and get the deal done next summer.
That’s of little consequence to Celtic of course, who will hope Edouard keeps scoring and ramping up his price tag, should a sale be as inevitable as some seem to think it is.
