Fringe man Luis Palma has reportedly told Brendan Rodgers he wants to see out the season with Celtic.
The 24-year-old has been down the pecking order at Parkhead so far this season and faced criticism from fans after his social media antics in the wake of a disappointing display in his only start this season against Scottish Championship side Falkirk in the Premier Sports Cup. In the 6-0 rout of St Johnstone the following weekend, the Honduran failed to make the matchday squad.
But despite facing a battle for his Celtic future, it appears the Honduran is up for the fight. El Heraldo claim that Palma “has made personal decision” to remain with the club following talks with Rodgers with a potential January exit on the cards – with suitors showing interest in the winger towards the end of the summer window. He wants “to repay the trust of his coach, with whom he has a good relationship.”
It is claimed the player has pledged to “take a break from social media and focus on recovering his level.” It comes with Celtic seemingly eyeing potential replacements including Royal Antwerp’s Michel-Ange Balikwisha.
Previously, CEO Sven Jaecques has claimed the Premiership leaders showed an interest in the wide man in the last window – and he expects the Hoops to revive their interest in January as he floated a £5m price tag for the 23-year-old. He has now conceded the club may be forced to sell with the clock ticking on Balikwisha’s contract.
He told De Standaard: “He is committed until 2026 and it is clear to everyone that his contract is not expiring yet. But if it is impossible to reach an agreement on a new contract, we will work together towards a transfer. I understand that this is also the player’s choice for the time being.”
Reports in Sweden also suggest Celtic are escalating their interest in Bazoumana Toure. Arsenal, Crystal Palace, Eintracht Frankfurt and Bayer Leverkusen are all said to have scouted the 18-year-old – but the Parkhead outfit are said to be leading the race at this stage for the £8.3m striker.
Speaking to Fotbollskanalenthe wonderkid appeared to give the green light to a potential exit from the Swedish top flight, stating: “Anything can happen in football. You can’t predict anything. It’s definitely good news when you learn you’re in demand. But I’m young and I don’t want to rush things. I’m staying focused on my season and my club. We’ll see later.”