Time is running out for Celtic to get transfer business wrapped up.
It’s a familiar story for supporters, but for Martin O’Neill, the requirement for reinforcements has never been more obvious.
Only Tomas Cvancara and Julian Araujo have arrived so far, with both joining on loan. It’s fair to say the club have left things late.
With the side locked in a title battle, that’s a dangerous approach… though one that won’t shock many Hoops fans.
One player expected to move before the deadline is David Datro Fofana – and Celtic are among several clubs circling.
Roberto Mancini’s interest in Celtic target David Datro Fofana
Currently on the books at Chelsea, Fofana turned down Celtic in the summer, with a proposed switch to Charlton falling through before he eventually joined Fatih Karahumruk on loan in the Turkish Super Lig.
The striker’s performances in Turkey prompted the Blues to recall him, with the intention of selling him permanently for a profit.
The issue for Chelsea is that most suitors are pushing for another loan deal. Celtic are just one of many sides to have registered interest this month.
Another is Qatari outfit Al-Sadd. Rudy Galetti reports that the club, managed by legendary coach Roberto Mancini, initially saw a loan bid for Fofana rejected.
After Chelsea demanded a permanent transfer, Al-Sadd followed up with an offer that fell short of their valuation. The report states that Mancini ‘rates’ the striker.
Fofana has attracted attention from across the UK and Europe. There has also been talk of a potential move to Strasbourg, effectively Chelsea’s feeder club.
A reported £10 million price tag has been placed on him, leading Championship side Leicester City to withdraw from the race.
And when assessing Fofana’s record and career trajectory, it’s hard not to feel that’s a steep fee, even for a cash-rich Qatari club.
Martin O’Neill on Celtic transfers
In his most recent transfer address, O’Neill said: “Yeah, we’re making progress. I think we can move it along now in the next couple of days.
“I’m very confident that we’ll get some recruits in. I don’t know (what progress would look like). Like anything else, you’re trying to look for a bit of quality that would, first of all, supplement the squad, and two, improve it.
“That’s the case, and that’s what we’re hoping to try and do. But it’s not been easy – not just for us, but for other clubs. Perhaps the Celtic fans think it’s always us!
“I’ve had transfer windows in the past myself – not at Celtic, necessarily – when you’re twiddling your fingers and letting the day go past.
“So we’re trying to do some work and we think we can do it. You keep questioning me on guarantees, promises and all that stuff… I can’t guarantee anything. I don’t think any of us can do in the game.
“But we’re very, very hopeful.”