The Background
One of the players to have been heavily linked with a move to Celtic this summer is Hibernian’s, John McGinn. The Hibs have already mooted out three bids for the midfielder, with the latest one of £2million with further attractive add-ons based around appearances, future sale and Champions League qualification have been deemed as unacceptable by his employers.
Reportedly, the Celts are unwilling to roll out the fourth bid of £3million. Daily Record has reported that Celtic have decided to draw a line and are only going to change if they face competition from English clubs for securing McGinn’s signature. The player is in the final year of his contract and the Bhoys still have time (with the transfer window set to shut down on 31st August) to test the resolve of Hibernian.
A Dazzling Star
McGinn is one of the most prized assets in Scottish football at the moment and there is no denying that. His willingness, drive and tenacity in the middle of the park as well his ability to score goals and create chances have not gone unnoticed and no wonder why Celtic have been desperate for lure him to the Celtic Park this summer.
The 23-year-old emerged through the youth ranks of St Mirren and after making a positive impression for their senior side, he moved to the Easter Road in the summer of 2015. After being called up to the Scottish national side in March 2016, he has represented his country on a regular basis and has managed to make his presence felt.
More often than not, McGinn put his heart out on the pitch to turn the tide in favour of his side. His ability to read the game is exemplary and he takes shrewd decisions when he is with the ball. Besides, he is strong defensively and technically as well as tactically, he is a very sound player. His career has churned out an upward trajectory and he would be an ideal signing for Brendan Rodgers’ side.
Is Celtic’s Reluctance Justifiable?
Rodgers is keen to bring McGinn to fill the void which has been created after the departure of Stuart Armstrong, who joined the ranks of Southampton for £7million last month. Celtic have domestic superiority to maintain and also have to better their credentials in the Champions League.
Signing someone of McGinn’s calibre would be a huge boost to the arsenal of the former Liverpool boss. It would take time for the Scottish international to acclimatize with the tactical nous of Rodgers and it would be justifiable if they shell out around £3million with lucrative add-ons to get the deal done as soon as possible.
