Celtic were linked with Amadou Mbengue over the summer but the midfielder has now secured a move to England with Reading.
The Bhoys were looking to secure midfield additions this summer to bolster Ange Postecoglou’s squad.
Aaron Mooy arrived on a free transfer, reuniting with his former Australia boss Postecoglou in the process.
Celtic then pounced to sign a giant anchor man before the transfer deadline, with Oliver Abildgaard joining on loan from Rubin Kazan.
Others were linked but well by the wayside – and Mbengue is one such example.
Celtic were linked with Amadou Mbengue
Reports from France in June suggested that Celtic were keen on signing Mbengue from Metz.
it was noted that Mbengue’s contract with Metz was coming to an end on June 30th and Celtic were interested in a bargain deal.
Mbengue had only made 12 Ligue 1 appearances last season but his potential had seemingly attracted Celtic’s interest.
The Senegalese talent can play as a holding midfielder or centre back but his contract expired without Celtic making a move.
Celtic went and signed Mooy and Abilgaard instead and the summer transfer window ended without Mbengue finding a new club.
That day has now arrived though as Mbengue has over down to England to join Championship side Reading.
The Royal have confirmed the signing of Mbengue on a deal that only runs until January 2023.
The 20-year-old now has a chance to either put himself in the shop window or earn an extension with Reading.
It’s stated that Mbengue has been training with Reading for weeks now and he has finally landed himself a short-term deal.
Reading can only sign free agents or loan players so Mbengue fits in for the Royals and in truth, a move to Celtic just never seemed quite right.
Mooy and Abildgaard suit Celtic much better in terms of their profiles and experience levels, but maybe the Bhoys will keep tabs on Mbengue’s progress with Reading.
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