Brendan Rodgers has said he expects Leicester City starlet Sidnei Tavares to commit to a new deal, despite reported interest from Celtic. The Sun reported that Celtic were interested in bringing the highly-rated youngster to Paradise. Tavares is out of contract in the summer and would be available for a small compensation fee, similar to the deal that brought Moussa Dembele to the club in 2016.
Ex-Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is an admirer of the midfielder but as he is yet to make a Premier League appearance for the high flying Foxes, Rodgers may face losing him in the summer with Celtic, Barcelona and Bayern Munich are reportedly interested in signing the youngster. However, Rodgers believes that a deal can be done to keep the highly rated youngster at the King Power stadium. Speaking to The Leicester Mercury, Rodgers confirmed there had been discussions with the player as they look to commit him to a long-term deal.
“It’s up at the end of the season. The club have been in discussions with his representatives. He’s a very talented young player. He fits the profile and has good potential. There is a lot for him to do.
“I’m pretty sure that will get resolved. I’ll continue to coach him until the end of the season or beyond. We provide an environment for young players. It’s about three fundamental principles. Can we win titles? Can we play attacking football? And can we do it with players from our academy?
“I would hope they see it as a great place to be. We are looking to be competitive. Hopefully him and his family can see that.”
Marseille attempted to sign the player last year but Brendan Rodgers managed to convince him to stay and learn his trade with Leicester City’s U23s. The Portuguese teenager will likely remain with Leicester; however, Celtic offer a unique pathway for players that struggle to breakthrough at top teams – such as Odsonne Edouard, Moussa Dembele and Virgil Van Dijk.
It would be an ambitious signing for the club, which would offer Tavares the opportunity to play first team football as well as European football with the caveat that when there is an offer that meets a pre-agreed figure, he is able to leave the club.
