Alex Neil has responded to rumours linking some of his players with moves in January, in a disgruntled manner as Celtic target Ben Davies enters his final few months with the Championship side. The Preston North End boss faces losing the 25-year-old defender as well as Alan Browne and Ben Pearson.
As reported by The Daily Record, Neil wanted the future of his central defender resolved soon as he faces losing the player for nothing as he is free to sign a pre-contract in January.
“In regards to contracts and transfers at this club, the best person to speak to is Peter (Ridsdale).
“He is the guy who deals with it, not me. Of course I would (like to have an answer before January), because it gives me clarity and we know what we’re doing.
“It’s an absolutely bizarre scenario, I’ve never seen anything like it but there’s nothing I can do about it.
“Like I say, if I’ve got a preference then naturally not. I want the lads to be settled and to realign their fortunes with ours. But, I’m not in control of that.”
The comments from Neil suggest that he is irked by the situation relating to contacts. If Davies were to have wanted to stay, he would have already signed on the terms that they offered. Although, should no deal be agreed, he would be free to discuss terms for next summer with Neil Lennon’s side. With over 120 appearances in the Championship with Preston, Davies is likely to want a challenge in a new setting and Celtic can offer him more in terms of European football and the opportunity to compete for trophies.
Celtic are likely to need defensive options come the summer with Shane Duffy’s loan deal ending as well as Kris Ajer likely to be the subject of further transfer interest. Davies would be a good signing but now it appears that he has a decision to make.
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