Dominic Solanke is reportedly set to put his Chelsea nightmare behind him by signing for Celtic – what does this mean for Tottenham-linked Moussa Dembele?
If nabbing Chelsea prodigy Dominic Solanke amid interest from a number of Premier League and European big-hitters wasn’t impressive enough, the fact that Celtic could also get one of England’s most exciting prospects for just £400,000 highlights a potential masterstroke in the making.
The Daily Record reports that reported English suitors would have to pay an £8 million development fee despite the fact Solanke is out of contract at the end of this season. Celtic, however, could take advantage of the same loophole that allowed them to snare Moussa Dembele on a minimal fee from Fulham last summer.
Although you wonder whether the 19-year-old’s impending arrival at Parkhead may have major repercussions for his fellow goalscoring prodigy. After all, his arrival may mean that Celtic could be more open to offers for Dembele this summer.
The Scottish Sun reported recently that Tottenham Hotspur were tracking Dembele’s progress north of the border, a year after it is claimed the Frenchman failed a medical at White Hart Lane.
And no doubt they’ll have been impressed. Dembele has netted 32 goals in a stunning debut campaign at Celtic, putting the club one Scottish Cup final win away from a domestic treble. As such, Brendan Rodgers’ side could earn a £40 million profit if they sell this summer.
Challenge ahead
Although with the ambitious Rodgers hoping to make a splash in Europe next season, Celtic need to keep hold of their prized assets. And Dembele represented a bright spark in an otherwise disappointing Champions League campaign this season, a stunning overhead kick against Manchester City the highlight.
Therefore, Rodgers will hope the former PSG prospect will spearhead the club’s assault on the continent in 2017/18.
However, with Solanke seemingly certain to arrive at Celtic Park, Tottenham may be encouraged to ramp up their pursuit of Dembele this summer as manager Mauricio Pochettino searches high and low for a back-up to Harry Kane.
At least Celtic may have a ready-made replacement – one who could ensure Dembele’s exit may not be quite as damaging as initially feared.
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