Tottenham Hotspur are among the clubs set to miss out on Benyu’s signing to Celtic, in a deal reminiscent of Brendan Rodgers’ capture of Moussa Dembele a year ago.
Benyu’s current club, Ipswich Town, are said to have offered him a long-term deal to remain at Portman Road.
Ipswich Town manager Mick McCarthy
However, it appears the 19-year-old will be now heading to Celtic Park instead, which is potentially the worst possible news for the Championship side.
Were Benyu to move to an English club, the compensation due to Ipswich would be significantly higher than if he goes elsewhere, as Celtic found to their advantage during last summer’s transfer window when they signed Fulham’s Moussa Dembele – another player reportedly of interest to Tottenham Hotspur – in a cut price deal.
Benyu impressed on loan to Aldershot Town last season, scoring five goals and creating three in 22 National League outings, helping his temporary employers to the play-offs.
His form is said to have alerted English giants Tottenham, West Ham United and Aston Villa. Nevertheless, it is Celtic who look to have won the race to sign him.
Is Benyu making the right call choosing Celtic over Tottenham Hotspur?
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
