Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers hints at deal for Chelsea youngster Charly Musonda
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has hinted that his side could be close to a deal to take Chelsea youngster Charly Musonda north of the border.
Rodgers revealed that the Scottish champions had almost concluded a deal for a player of “substantial pedigree and quality”, widely reported to be the Chelsea midfielder for a sum of around £5million.
Musonda has struggled to make a breakthrough at Stamford Bridge since joining from Anderlecht in 2012 and spent the first half of last season at Real Betis. Whilst Antonio Conte brought him into the Chelsea squad in January the 20-year-old has yet to feature for his club.
“He is young but is a big talent who has got experience. It’s good money that will be spent on him,” Rodgers said of his unnamed prospective signing.
“We have players who can play there but it’s about getting pace and power and also another one that can make the last pass.
“I felt that was something I wanted to add. We are hopeful we can get that.
“Look at Liverpool with Daniel Sturridge, Luis Suarez and [Philippe] Coutinho. Bright, clever players who can disorganise defenders. They can attack but they also need to have the profile to press.”
Asked directly whether Musonda was the player to which he was referring Rodgers said: “He's a very good player.”
In targeting Musonda, who has previously been linked to the likes of Roma, Celtic will point to their achievements with another bright young prospect, former Fulham striker Moussa Dembele.
Under Rodgers’ tutelage the 20-year-old, now a target for a host of leading English clubs including Chelsea, Arsenal and West Ham, has benefitted from regular first team football and scored 32 goals in 48 games.
ArticleCeltic boss Rodgers hints at deal for Chelsea's MusondaCharly MusondaChelseaChelsea F.c.CelticBrendan RodgersPremier Leaguetransfer newsLondon footballChelsea transfer news: Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers hints at deal for Chelsea youngster Charly Musonda