Brendan Rodgers says that he would love to sign Patrick Roberts on a permanent deal.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers before the match
Celtic winger Patrick Roberts said that it was tough for him to prioritise his club career over playing for England in the under-20 World Cup in South Korea.
Rodgers has showered heaps of praise on the 20-year-old saying it was a difficult decision for the youngster, as not many players get the chance to go to a World Cup.
Rodgers has revealed to the Daily Record that he would love to sign Patrick on a permanent deal.
Roberts joined Celtic on an 18-month loan deal, and he is scheduled to return to Manchester City, his parent club, in the summer transfer window.
Patrick Roberts celebrates after scoring the third goal for Celtic
“He’s a player we would love to have here permanently, of course, but we have to respect he’s still a Manchester City player,” said Rodgers, as quoted by the Daily Record.
“But if there’s ever a possibility of doing it, then it’s something I would look at.”
The young winger cost City £12 million according to Sky Sports when they signed him from Fulham. He has been brilliant for Celtic this season, having scored 15 goals in all competitions.
It remains to be seen how City deal with Robert’s situation. The Citizens paid a high transfer fee to sign the player, and the club would be looking to recoup that amount or demand even more (based on performance this season) should they decide to sell him permanently.
Furthermore, City manager, Pep Guardiola, who is known for promoting young players, may take a special notice of him when he returns to pre-season. If he can impress the former Barcelona manager, he could be included in the City playing squad as well.
It is highly unlikely that City would allow the youngster to leave without giving him a fair chance to impress.
New Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers during the press conference
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