Celtic appear to be back in for former target Bright Osayi-Samuel this summer.
The Lowdown: Hoops’ previous interest
The Hoops were linked with a move for the winger back in December. Neil Lennon made the 23-year-old his winter window transfer priority, but as we know, a deal never materialised.
Osayi-Samuel eventually left Queens Park Rangers for Fenerbahce; however, he has struggled in Turkey, scoring just once in 18 Super Lig appearances.
The Latest: Monaco in talks, Celtic interested
According to Turkish outlet Fotospor, Fenerbahce are in talks with Monaco over potentially including Osayi-Samuel in a swap deal for Henry Onyekuru.
The report adds however that ‘there is also interest from Celtic’ – an intriguing six-word claim at the end of the story.
Rivals Rangers are also credited with an interest, and it appears as if there is a real chance Osayi-Samuel’s stay in Turkey could be short-lived.
The Verdict: Just what Celtic need?
It’s safe to say Osayi-Samuel, who QPR boss Mark Warburton described as ‘outstanding’ last year, knows how to beat a man, and with Mohamed Elyounoussi’s second loan spell at Parkhead now over, the Nigerian could be a handy acquisition to bolster the attacking ranks.
He’s averaged 2.4 successful dribbles per game throughout his career, with Hoops star David Turnbull averaging just 0.4 per match [WhoScored], while Tom Rogic, perhaps the other competitor for that attacking midfield spot, manages 1.5 dribbles per showing.
Osayi-Samuel contributed to 14 Championship goals in the 2019/20 season, so if he could get back to that form, you’d expect him to be a real threat in the attacking third.
If the Hoops are serious about reigniting their interest in the 23-year-old, they may have to act relatively fast, as it appears as if Fenerbahce are looking to use him as part of a deal for Onyekuru.
In other news: Celtic hold talks with Ange Postecoglou alternative, find out more here.