‘He’s too important’: Owner desperate to stop reported Celtic target from leaving

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Reported Celtic target Alfie Doughty is a huge part of Charlton Athletic’s future and won’t be going anywhere before Friday’s transfer deadline, Addicks owner Thomas Sandgaard has told London News Online.

While the window has already closed for clubs north of the border, there’s only ten weeks remaining until January begins.

And, according to the Glasgow Times, Celtic are already planning to sign one of the most exciting youngsters in England’s lower leagues during the winter window – potentially on a pre-contract agreement with his current deal expiring at the end of 2020/21.

But with Charlton’s latest new owner keen to keep the club’s prized asset at the Valley, don’t be surprised if he puts pen to paper on a new long-term deal sooner rather than later.  

“Alfie Doughty is someone we expect to be staying,” said the likeable and passionate Sandgaard. “He’s part of the future of the club. I’m not really interested in selling at this point.

“No, I don’t see (Doughty leaving before the deadline). He’s too important.

“Of course (we would like to see him sign a new contract). That would only be the right thing to do. I think he’s doing great and seems very comfortable at the club.”

Celtic failed with a pair of bids for a player Charlton manager Lee Bowyer values at more than £1 million. If the League One outfit can tie Doughty down for the long term, his price tag could rapidly go through the roof.  

A left-winger who can also play at full-back, the jet-heeled 20-year-old looks a perfect fit for Neil Lennon’s preferred 3-5-2 formation at Celtic.