Chidera Ejuke might have missed the chance to become a Scottish Premiership champion with Celtic but, speaking to AD, the Heerenveen winger has no regrets about prioritising a move to the Eredivisie.
While Neil Lennon’s Hoops romped to a ninth successive league title, 2019/20 represented another season of frustration for Heerenveen.
The Friesian giants finished disappointingly in mid-table.
And they might have flirted with relegation if it wasn’t for the form of an electric winger who notched 16 goals and assists during his first year in Dutch football.
Ejuke international was by far and away Heerenveen’s star performer and is now attracting interest from clubs all over the globe. A club from China has already seen a £6 million bid rejected.
But, if he could turn back the clock, would the former Nigeria U20 international have given a move to Celtic move thought?
“After talking to the trainer and the technical manager I knew enough. I could become a better footballer at (Heerenveen),” said Ejuke, who is also being linked with Ajax and Marseille.
“And I have not regretted my choice for a moment. The people on the streets are friendly, while everyone at the club wants to help me and give me confidence.”
It is unknown how much Celtic offered for Ejuke. According to ScoreNigeria, the jet-heeled wideman with superb dribbling ability is now being valued at £9 million with Heerenveen determined to avoid selling one of the rising stars of Dutch football on the cheap.
Such a fee means Celtic are unlikely to renew their interest – unless, of course, the departure of an Odsonne Edouard or Kristoffer Ajer gives Neil Lennon money to spend.
With Moi Elyounoussi heading out of the door, there is certainly room for a new left-winger at Parkhead.
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