NEIL LENNON has played down the rumour linking Kris Ajer with a sensational move to AC Milan.
On Friday, Sky Sports News’ Anthony Joseph revealed that the Serie A side were eyeing up Ajer in a deal worth £15m. However, following Celtic’s 3-2 win over Livingston yesterday, the manger told BBC Sportsound that there had been no bid for the Norwegian.
“It’s disappointing on the day of the game that this comes out, because that can be unsettling for the player, but I thought particularly second half he had a real strong game, and we don’t want to sell him.
“I’m not convinced £14m would cut it anyway.”
Ajer played well yesterday despite giving a penalty away. Under the rules it is a spot kick but it is an incredibly harsh rule to have. It is reassuring to hear Lennon saying that he doesn’t want to sell him as the figure quoted seems on the low side.
Ajer joined Celtic from IK Start in 2016 for £500,000 as a midfielder; however, Brendan Rodgers retrained the youngster as a central defender. The Norwegian became a first team regular striking up a partnership with Dedryck Boyata and impressing in the centre of defence.
Ajer had struck up a formidable partnership with Christopher Jullien at the heart of the Celtic defence before Neil Lennon opted for a 3-5-2 in the second half of the season. The Norwegian made 49 appearances in all competitions for the Scottish Champions last year and had continued this season being a mainstay in Lennon’s teams.