MOI ELYOUNOUSSI is being tipped with a return to Celtic Park ahead of the club’s 10IAR season by reports in his native Norway. Although, Celtic must fend off a challenge from Real Betis for the signature of the Norwegian winger if they are to sign their man.
Norwegian media’s Arilas Ould-Saada tweeted last night stating that it was a straight battle between Celtic and Betis for the signature of Elyounoussi with the decision expected shortly.
Southampton winger Mohamed Elyounoussi is closing in on a new loan deal for next season, according to our information (@vgsporten). Two clubs in very concrete discussions with the Norwegian: Celtic and Real Betis. Decision expected shortly. @SouthamptonFC @CelticFC @RealBetis
— Arilas Ould-Saada (@arilasos) June 26, 2020
Elyounoussi played 20 times for the Scottish Champions, scoring 7 and assisting 6 for Lennon’s side and was highly rated despite injuries impacting his game time. A move to Celtic makes sense as he knows the club, his teammates and the manager as well as being very aware of what the club can potentially win next season.
Last week, Neil Lennon confirmed that the club would hold talks with Southampton to discuss the possibility of Elyounoussi and Fraser Forster returning to the club for the new season.
“They are two players we would dearly love to have for next season.
“But we just have to wait and see. They are not our players. We will see how negotiations go. It’s good to see them back and involved and it would give us continuity if we could get those two in.”
A loan deal appears to be a sensible move considering the finances and it means that Celtic get their player and may have to pay a small fee whilst covering Moi’s wages. Although for a player like Elyounoussi, you would surely rather be competing with Celtic on the brink of history instead of playing in Spain.