Celtic’s agreement to sign Mohamed Elyounoussi on loan from Southampton came as rather surprising news, but it has since been reported that the club will not have an option to buy him permanently at the end of the season.
Elyounoussi will represent the Hoops in the 2019/20 campaign after being deemed surplus to Ralph Hasenhuttl’s requirements.
Moussa Djenepo’s arrival and Sofiane Boufal’s return appeared to signal the end of the Norwegian’s short stay at Southampton, but he has only departed temporarily.
The Daily Record reports that although Celtic will hope to help Elyounoussi revitalise his career, they do not have an agreed option to purchase him next summer.
Read Southampton’s verdict
It would have been nice to ensure that Elyounoussi would be shifted from our books by next year at the very latest.
However, it’s also understandable that following a dismal year in his first ventures into European football’s top five tiers, there is caution from potential suitors.
Celtic are hardly a wealthy club and are not known to invest copious sums – let alone into players who are, in truth, unknown quantities. Trying before buying seems sensible from the Hoops.
If Elyounoussi performs well in Scotland, it’s likely that he’ll be wanted by Neil Lennon’s side on a permanent basis, as he’ll have proven to be a successful signing.
However, should this be the case and interested parties begin to queue up, Saints may be able to recoup some of the £16 million that they paid Basel for his signature last summer.
Either way, it is most beneficial for all parties if Elyounoussi can shine for Celtic this season. If not, he faces yet another uncertain transfer window next year.
