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New Celtic signing has ‘big future’ and ‘will be a star’ says ex-boss

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers (REUTERS)
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Former Genoa manager Andrea Mandorlini is full of praise for Celtic’s new signing Olivier Ntcham, who is on the verge of joining from Manchester City.

The Scottish Sun is reporting that a deal to take Olivier Ntcham to Celtic from Manchester City in a £5m move is as good as done.

Ntcham will become manager Brendan Rodgers’ third permanent signing at Parkhead this summer, joining Jonny Hayes and Kundai Benyu on the list of new faces at the club.

Yet according to the 21-year-old’s former boss, Andrea Mandorlini, it is this latest addition to Rodgers’ squad that could prove to be the most exciting.

Celtic manager Brendan RodgersCeltic manager Brendan Rodgers

Ntcham spent the past two seasons on loan at Genoa from City, during which time Mandorlini was his manager, and the Italian believes the Bhoys have landed themselves quite a talent.

“Olivier is only a young boy – he has incredible potential and it’s clear he will be a star,” the 56-year-old, who was sacked in April, was quoted by the Daily Record.

“He has extraordinary talent.

“I have the highest regard for his talent. He’s had to work hard this season and there is a lot more to come from him.

“I always feel when he plays well, the whole team plays well.

“Above all, he has shown a willingness to listen and improve. He has a big future in football if he keeps progressing.”

Ntcham was signed by the Citizens from Le Havre in 2012, but failed to break into their first team. During two years in Italy the France Under-21 international made 41 appearances and scored three goals for Genoa.

In a separate report, the Scottish Sun says that Ntcham has already undergone a medical and could be included in Celtic’s Champions League squad to face Linfield on Friday (July 14).

Olivier Ntcham in action for GenoaOlivier Ntcham in action for Genoa