Celtic could decide to walk away from a potential deal for Crystal Palace winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi after failing to find common ground over the terms of a proposed loan move.
The Hoops are under pressure to strengthen their squad as they attempt to close the gap on Hearts in the Scottish Premiership title race, and Martin O’Neill is eager to add fresh attacking options. Despite that need, negotiations for one of Celtic’s long-standing targets have stalled.
According to a report from Mark Hendry on CeltsAreHere, Celtic have made contact with Crystal Palace to explore a loan move for Rak-Sakyi, but talks have yet to progress due to a disagreement over how the deal would be structured. Celtic are pushing for a temporary move until the end of the season that includes an option to buy, while Palace want any agreement to contain an obligation to purchase.
Interest from several Championship clubs has further complicated matters, as Palace are open to letting the 23 year old leave but remain firm on their preference for an obligation clause. That position has already influenced other negotiations, with Rak-Sakyi previously rejecting a similar proposal from Swansea City. It is also understood the winger was keen on a move to Rangers during the summer, although that transfer never materialised.
Celtic are reluctant to commit to a mandatory fee, believed to be around £8 million, as they want to limit financial exposure if the player does not settle or if Champions League qualification is missed. While the club have the resources to complete the deal, their refusal to shift from an option rather than an obligation may ultimately scupper the move.
Rak-Sakyi’s career to date suggests he is in need of regular football at a settled club. He impressed during the 2022 to 23 season on loan at Charlton Athletic, scoring 15 league goals, but opportunities at Crystal Palace were limited the following year. A subsequent loan at Sheffield United brought seven goals in 35 appearances, restoring momentum, before he moved to Caykur Rizespor in Turkey.
His spell in the Turkish Super Lig has been productive, with four goals in 11 matches, and Celtic are considering whether they can offer him the platform he needs before the window closes. However, unless the two clubs can bridge the gap in their demands, Rak-Sakyi may be forced to look elsewhere for his next move.