Southampton are on the transfer trail of Celtic star Liel Abada. The English Premier League club are watching the winger’s situation closely - although Celtic are ready to fend off interest with contract talks in the New Year.
Abada is under contract until 2026 but are looking to offer the 21-year-old fresh terms. However, Southampton are interested in raiding the Scottish champions again having built up an extensive scouting dossier on the Israeli international during his impressive spell at Celtic Park. He has impressed in his season-and-a-bit in Glasgow since he made his bargain switch of around £3million from Maccabi Petah Tikva.
The Saints have also proved that targeting top talent from Celtic has proved to be a sure-fire road to success. The South Coast club has previously signed Victor Wanyama, Fraser Forster, Stuart Armstrong and Virgil van Dijk. Southampton have made recent changes in their scouting department but Abada very much remains on their radar.
The St Mary’s side aren’t likely to be the only English suitors for Abada though once the first move is made. Celtic, though, are keen to fight off any potential interest. The Hoops have previously indicated they want to reward him with improved terms and those talks are expected to take place in the coming weeks – despite recent reports claiming discussions were already under way.
Abada has become a key player under Postecoglou, chipping in with nine goals and four assists this season. That was on the back of 15 goals and 11 set-ups in his first debut season.
Postecoglou is more concerned about strengthening his title leaders. He has already brought in Alastair Johnston and Yuki Kobayashi ahead of the January window and are also keen on adding another striker.
Celtic’s business could also depend on high-profile departures. Record Sport broke the story Giorgos Giakoumakis could be on his way out of Celtic after recent contract talks.
There is growing interest in the Greek international, who is keen that his next contract will see him net a substantial rise. Croatia star Josip Juranovic could also attract interest next month.
A number of Italian clubs have been linked along with Atletico Madrid. Roma are the latest side to be named in connection with Juranovic but they would need to sell right-backs before they could move. He has impressed at the World Cup but there have been no offers for him yet.
READ NEXT
