Manchester United misfit Christian Eriksen has been told he could be a massive addition to Celtic’s Champions League push amid escalating transfer rumours.
New boss Ruben Amorim has reportedly deemed the midfielder surplus to requirements at Old Trafford with Brendan Rodgers a known admirer of the 32-year-old with the Danish media hyping up the prospect of a switch to the Scottish Premiership leaders in January to link up with international teammate Kasper Schmeichel. Former Celtic star Andy Walker reckons a deal could benefit both parties with the Hoops looking to progress from the league phase of Europe’s elite competition.
But he concedes that a bumper salary demand could scupper any hopes of a deal – with Eriksen said to be on £150k-per-week with the Premier League heavyweights. Asked about the prospect of a deal, Walker told Go Radio: “Well, that would be extraordinary. He has still got a lot to offer I think, but his wages – I imagine he is on six figures every week.
“There is obviously that connection with Kasper Schmeichel and he would add to Celtic’s Champions League campaign. Could he do it for a short time? He absolutely could. You just feel the wages could be a major stumbling block.”
Burnley’s Josh Brownhill has also been floated as a potential January target with Celtic said to be in the race for a deal with West Ham and Lazio. And former Parkhead defender Mark Wilson reckons a move for the 28-year-old would signal a major shake up in the signing policy at Celtic Park.
Discussing the rumoured interest on Clyde 1 Superscoreboard, he said: “I don’t think they should write anything off. I go back to Matt O’Riley – a different age, of course, but nobody really knew about him when he was coming in for £1.5m from the lower leagues. Maybe Brendan Rodgers is focusing more on quality.
“I think he alluded to that by saying he wants to take them to the next level. Brendan Rodgers is maybe getting away from this idea that every player needs to be a project player.
“I think it’s a good balance to strike. You do need experienced pros in the dressing room. If there is truth in this, it shows you the model is slightly tweaked by the manager.”
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