Celtic were pursuing a move for Fares Ghedjemis in the summer, but a deal never went through. A clear reason for this stance is now emerging.
The Algerian was key to bringing Frosinone back to Serie A last season. He contributed to over 15 goals and even got called up to his national team for the World Cup.
Sport Witness tracked his situation closely. Celtic wanted to sign him in January,although the player didn’t appear keen at that point. In the summer, they made a renewed approach to land the winger but their bids were rejected.
At the end of a long saga which also involved clubs like Monaco, Ghedjemis stayed at Frosinone. Now, it is clear the club’s ownership situation impacted his exit.
| Every Celtic signing 26/27 | Previous Club | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Camilo Durán | Qarabağ | €5.50m |
| Kasper Høgh | Bodø/Glimt | €12.85m |
| Haissem Hassan | Spain Real Oviedo | €7m |
| Mika Baur | SC Paderborn | €6.3m |
| Oliver Sørensen | Parma | Loan |
| Sam Johnstone | Wolverhampton Wanderers | Loan |
| Shim Mheuka | Chelsea | Loan |
| Landon Emenalo | Chelsea | Loan |
| Joël van den Berg | PSV Eindhoven | €3.5m |
| Jordan Lotomba | Feyenoord | Free |
Director opens up on player situation
Frosinone have been a surprise package of the campaign and find themselves in the top six in Serie A. The buzz around them is growing and Ghedjemis started for them in their 2-0 win over Como at the weekend.
It was his first start of the season and Frosinone sporting director Regno Castagnini spoke to Radio Sportivo about the attacker.
He made it clear that a move to Celtic may have not gone through because of Frosinone’s ownership change.
He said: “Ghedjemis wanted to leave, and I believe that when a player has the opportunity to improve, it’s right that he shows it.”
“When the Clara Vista fund came in, since we no longer needed to sell players, it was decided that Ghedjemis would stay with us.”
Castagnini revealed that the winger can now sign a new deal too.
“We’re working on his new contract, so we’re satisfied. We’re doing things properly and calmly.”
Our take: Transfer opportunity missed
Ghedjemis had a huge impact in Serie B last season. He, in fact, made history too. He was the first player in Frosinone history to play at a World Cup. The fact that Monaco wanted him shows a lot about his level.
Now, it is clear that Celtic missed out on a transfer chance. He is only 24 and now, his value will only rise. There is every chance bigger Serie A clubs move in. Frosinone’s new-found direction is only helping and they would soon be eyeing Ghedjemis’ sale.
