Former Hibernian forward Tam McManus believes it would a take a bid of “at least £4 million” for Celtic to sign Scotland international striker Kevin Nisbet from their Scottish Premiership rivals, as reported by the Daily Record.
Rangers legend Ally McCoist is a big fan of the Glasgow-born goal-machine – and you can see why.
Like a young McCoist, Nisbet is the sort of striker who comes alive when a ball drops in the penalty area.
The 24-year-old opened his international account in trademark style during Scotland’s 2-2 draw with the Netherlands on Wednesday, ruthlessly dispatching a wondrous Andy Robertson cross while barely breaking stride.
With a further 18 goals in all competitions for Hibs, Nisbet’s outstanding form has caught the eye of a Celtic side crying out for a prolific number nine – especially if, as expected, Leicester City-linked Odsonne Edouard follows Patryk Klimala out the door.
Celtic see Hibs ace Nisbet as Edouard replacement
The Edinburgh News believes Celtic could use former Hibernian hero Leigh Griffiths as a makeweight in a deal that would see Nisbet go in the other direction.
Either way, McManus is convinced his old employers are destined to make a major profit on a man who moved to Easter Road from Dunfermline for just £250,000 in July.
“There’s an old adage – you’re only worth what someone is prepared to pay. Hibs have already knocked back £3m for Nisbet so they will be looking for at least £4m for him,” McManus says.
Hibs youngsters in demand as QPR eye defender
Nisbet isn’t the only Hibs youngster in high demand.
Left-back Josh Doig has been linked with Arsenal, Leeds United, Manchester City and more, while Ryan Porteous has admirers in the England second tier with Queens Park Rangers keen on the Scotland U21 defender (Record).
“I look at Hibs and a player like Josh Doig. He’s 18 and just had a fantastic season,” McManus adds.
“If the same boy was playing with Barnsley down the road they’d be talking upwards of £5 million for him. That’s the going rate for a kid who’s played 40 games in the Championship and it’s bonkers when you compare like for like.
“Then there’s Ryan Porteous, who’s a strange one. He’s made mistakes in big games and that may put potential suitors off. But he has the talent to go to a Championship club.
“If he gets more aggressive, the club could get at least £2m for him.”
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