Martin O’Neill prompts Alfie Devine to make a move as Celtic complete a trial run
Martin O’Neill will know better than most how much work the current Celtic squad needs. The veteran coach got the Bhoys over the line last season, but it wasn’t quite as many expected and the Parkhead side will want to avoid a similar flurry.
The Rangers business increased the pressure on the champions. The Gers have already welcomed a host of new faces, and that could force Celtic to respond by signing a Premier League midfielder.
O’Neill is now reportedly leading the way to sign Alfie Devine from Tottenham Hotspur following a stunning loan move to Preston North End last week.
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Football FanCast verdict |
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Honesty |
Devine has been on Celtic’s radar more than once in the last 12 months and with his game time unlikely to improve at Tottenham, a permanent move should be on the cards. After showing his quality in the Championship, a move to Scotland would make sense. |
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Finance |
It remains to be seen how much Spurs will charge for their young defender. He still has plenty of potential as he is only 21 years old and has spent the last few seasons on loan. |
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Understanding |
Devine spent time in Belgium and in the Championship, gaining much-needed experience and earning plenty of praise. Last season he was the best player as he scored eight goals and assisted eight in all competitions. |
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Impact |
Devine’s arrival will raise questions about the future of other midfielders. Arne Engels has always been a target and the Tottenham man could be his replacement in no time. |
If Tottenham’s price is within Celtic’s range, then the Bhoys should immediately launch an offer and give O’Neill his transfer target.
O’Neill is driving a move to sign Alfie Devine
According to Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider. O’Neill is driving Celtic’s move to sign Devine from Tottenham this summer. The Bhoys have already completed their scouting for the midfielder and can now accelerate their pursuit.
“Alfie Devine is a player that Celtic have been tracking for a long time. Martin O’Neill and his coaching staff made regular trips to watch Devine play for Preston last season.” – O’Rourke
With Celtic looking to revamp their front line, the former Preston loanee should be a strong candidate to land at a reasonable price this summer.
Celtic should go all out to sign Devine
On paper, Devine ticks all the boxes. He is young, but inexperienced. He is someone O’Neill has already watched in person and is impressed with, and he is a player Spurs are willing to sell.
At a time when Daizen Maeda is publicly mulling his future and with rumors surrounding Engels’ potentially shaky record, the Bhoys desperately need the encouragement Devine will provide.
As Parkhead bosses push to start their own transfer business, welcoming a young talent from the Premier League would be the perfect statement.
