Neil Lennon claims contract talks ongoing with Odsonne Edouard

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Celtic boss Neil Lennon has told The Scottish Sun that there are ‘ongoing discussions’ with Odsonne Edouard about a new contract.

The Bhoys have seen Edouard blossom this season. The Frenchman was already a key player, but his numbers this season have been staggering.

Edouard has racked up 27 goals and 19 assists in 45 games this season, proving that he is not just a goalscorer but also a facilitator.

His incredible record has continued on the international stage. He became a France Under-21 international this season, and has smashed a ridiculous 11 goals in his first six caps.

The 22-year-old has everything; he’s big and strong, he can be a goal poacher, he can pick the bull up from deep, he’s technically excellent and a threat from free kicks.

Edouard looks set for stardom, and clubs are queueing up to sign him. Arsenal are leading the race according to The Express, but Newcastle United are keen too.

The global pandemic means clubs may not have the funds to tempt Celtic into a deal, but Newcastle will be a huge threat if their takeover materialises.

Now, Celtic boss Lennon has tackled the subject. Lennon noted that talks are ongoing about a potential new deal for Edouard, with Celtic hoping to keep him for at least another season.

Lennon thinks Edouard is happy at Celtic, and that’s why the club are pushing for him to sign a new deal, with his current contract expiring in 2022.

“Yes, there are ongoing discussions at the minute with his representatives. Ultimately he’s a player we want around. He’s a fantastic player. He’s really blossomed over the last couple of seasons,” said Lennon. “He had a magnificent season this year and we want to keep him. It’s as simple as that. We’re doing everything we can to keep him here for at least another season anyway.”

“I think he is happy here. He’s got a fantastic relationship with me and my backroom team and his team-mates. You can see how much the supporters appreciate him as well. I think that’s reciprocated. He’s grown into a top-class striker. Of course there is going to be speculation around a player of that quality. But we’re comfortable at the minute with the position we’re in with him. He seems pretty happy and we’re looking forward to seeing him back at training. We’d love to discuss things with him and a few other players about what our plans are going forwards,” he added.