Former Celtic striker Andy Walker is backing his old club to thrash out a deal with Ajax over the sale of Liel Abada. It has been rumoured in the mainstream media that Liel is unhappy with the terms on offer put forward by the club over a new deal and as we’ve seen with previous incumbents, it could spell the end for him under Ange Postecoglou.
The big man didn’t mess about when Giorgos Giakoumakis or Josip Juranovic starting making feelings about a potential exit common knowledge, and although he will probably feel the same about Abada, the Hoops will be wanting a far greater transfer fee than any of the two received for the aforementioned duo.
Contracted until 2026, the Israeli will command a very large transfer fee and the Bhoys will be largely relaxed in the knowledge that he still has a considerable distance to go on the deal he signed back in the summer of 2021, with his age and huge potential also major selling points to any potential suitors for his services come the close season.
Walker believes that Celtic would be willing to do business with the Amsterdam club if they come calling, citing the business model the club has developed over the years and the fact that Abada is not a regular starter. Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, the Sky Sports pundit said: “I think Celtic have shown over the last number of years that they are a club that are always willing to do business.
“And if Ajax are in for Abada, from memory, I think he’s got around 10 goals this season but he doesn’t play enough for himself. I think he’s fit. I think Celtic will do business. They will make a profit from him and they will go and get someone else. And you’ve got to say, he’s had a terrific attitude. He has been brilliant in big games.
He added: “He’s been brilliant against Rangers. He has scored goals on the big occasion and has looked an exciting player. Celtic will miss him in as much the same way as they miss Giakoumakis and Juranovic. These guys come and go and you change the menu pretty regularly.”
Paul Gillespie
