Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic side have agreed to loan out Ryan Christie to Aberdeen next season.
Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes has admitted to BBC Sport that he tried very hard to snap up Celtic midfielder Ryan Christie.
Christie has joined the Dons, as part of Celtic’s deal for Jonny Hayes, but only on a loan basis.
And McInnes admits that taking Christie from Celtic on a temporary basis was not his side’s preferred option.
“We tried hard to get Ryan here on a permanent for loads of reasons,” McInnes said.
“Celtic said that he wasn’t for sale and that Ryan had a future with them.
“They recognised that his loan last season was good for them and Ryan. If he can replicate some of the form that he showed and give us even a bit more he’ll be a fantastic signing. He’s a brilliant boy.
“He brings you that knack of goals and I’m delighted to get the opportunity to work with him.”
Christie spent part of last season away from Celtic at Aberdeen on loan and put in some highly impressive performances.
The 22-year-old made 18 appearances in the Scottish Premiership for Aberdeen, and scored seven times.
Celtic still regard Christie highly, but his chances of playing for the Glasgow side appeared limited – and a loan deal was deemed to suit them.
Celtic have already strengthened their attack with the addition of Hayes this summer, and more new arrivals are expected to follow.
The Bhoys are thought to have a number of attacking targets on their radar, as Brendan Rodgers looks to add depth to his squad at Celtic Park.
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