AEK Athens near deal for Olivier Ntcham alternative

AEK Athens look set to sign a new midfielder after discussions with Celtic over the signature of Olivier Ntcham collapsed. Ntcham had reportedly agreed personal terms of £20k-per-week but Celtic would not release him from his contract and as a result, Athens have had to move quickly to get a replacement.

According to Greek journalist Giannis Chorianopoulos, editor of Sportime newspaper in Athens, AEK have agreed terms with Damien Le Tallec, the French midfielder. The deal will be two years plus the option of a third.

Fans had likely expected to see the back of Ntcham with that move to Greece; however, it was probably wise for Celtic to retain the player until the manager is given the chance to ascertain whether he is good enough to be involved with the new rebuild. Since arriving from Man City in 2017, Celtic have witnessed a number of versions of Ntcham ranging from the brilliant to unbothered. If Ange can get him playing, he could have a serious player on his hands once again.

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Born just as Celtic were stopping the Ten, Lubo98 follows Celtic home and away and helps run his local Celtic Supporters Club. He goes to all the games and is a Law Graduate. Has a particular fondness for Tom Rogic among the current Celts and both Lubo and Henrik form his earliest Celtic memories.

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