According to the BBC, Fulham’s bid for Dedryck Boyata has been rejected by Celtic. The newly promoted Premier League side need to strengthen their defensive department before the transfer window closes this Thursday.
The Times had earlier claimed that the Cottagers had submitted a £9million bid for Boyata whose contract with the Celts expires next summer. Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers revealed, “He is a player that we don’t want to lose.
“At this stage it would be pretty difficult for us to sell him because there is not a replacement there.” It remains to be seen if Fulham return with a bigger bid. Here’s what they could be missing out on…
Boyata – Fact File
Dedryck Boyata initially started his career with the youth team of Manchester City way back in 2009. But, the Belgian had struggled to make an impact in the first team despite his obvious talent. He made 35 appearances for the Sky Blues, most of which came before they rose to prominence under Roberto Mancini in 2012.
Boyata was sold to Celtic for a meagre fee of €2 million – a move that clearly reflected City’s lack of trust in their academy graduate. However, since moving to Scotland, the Belgian has managed to get his career back on track as he has played a key role in Celtic’s success in the last few years..
Celtic won three back to back titles since the arrival of Boyata, who has already featured in over 100 competitive appearances for the Hoops. Last season, Boyata made 24 appearances – a figure that could have easily been more had it not been for his knee injury which kept him out for over three months.
Boyata still managed to make a difference nonetheless, helping Brendan Rodgers’ men secure their third successive Scottish league title. He was named in the Belgian World Cup squad and featured in three matches for The Red Devils.
Why Fulham need Dedryck Boyata
Should Fulham return with a bid? They should. Here’s why…
Acquiring the services of Boyata could turn out to be a smart piece of business as far as Fulham are concerned. The Cottagers lack necessary depth in their defensive department and as new signing Alfie Mawson is not expected to be fit until September.
Boyata will add more quality and depth to their squad. But most importantly, he has previous exposure of playing in the Premier League, which will help him settle in quickly. Furthermore, Boyata’s versatility coupled with his physical prowess makes him tailor-made for the Premier League.
Stat courtesy: Transfermarkt