‘Not quite up to par’: Celtic want £2m star despite negative scouting reports – Journalist

Celtic are currently considering the transfer of talent Xavier Mbuyamba from FC Volendam, despite manager Brendan Rodgers receiving negative scouting reports about Sampdoria’s goal.

This is acc Dean Jones, who notes that Celtic have been scrutinizing Mbuyamba this summer. But the Premiership giants decided against prioritizing the 21-year-old as they questioned his current abilities. Hoops scouts doubted he’d be happy about an instant impression.

But now the Glasgow club are turning their attention back to the former Dutch U19 star. Celtic are making increasing efforts to agree a transfer with Volendam for Mbuyamba as they expect it to become a key aspect of coach Rodgers’ future plans.

Celtic are increasing their interest in Mbuyamba’s transfer from Volendam

Mbuyamba is under contract with Volendam until June 2025, with an option for a further year. The centre-back is also an important part of the Palingboeren team at Kras Stadion. He started in all 28 of his Eredivisie appearances in the 2022/23 season. The defender also recorded five goals and one assist.

Now, however, Celtic are hoping to lure Mbuyamba out of Volendam in the final weeks of the summer transfer window. Jones points out that Rodgers and the Bhoys now agree to make a bid for the Maastricht-born gem in hopes he develops into a first-team star in Glasgow.

“I know there are reports at Celtic of signing Mbuyamba,” Jones claimed. “But I hadn’t heard until recently that things were advanced enough to expect them to sign him.

“From what I’ve heard before, he wasn’t quite at the level to be considered a priority. So I think signing him now suggests he’s more of a developing player or someone who would be signed with the hope of him being a hit rather than an expectation. “

Celtic may have to fight Sampdoria to secure his services

However, Celtic may have to fight Sampdoria to secure Mbuyamba’s transfer from Volendam. De Telegraaf reported in late July that the Serie B side had drawn up a third offer worth €2.5million (£2million) plus a resale clause. Moreover, they have already agreed on a contract with the player.

Mbuyamba even told Volendam technical director Jasper van Leeuwen that he wants to seal a move to Sampdoria. Coach Andrea Pirlo has persuaded the former Barcelona and Chelsea youth defender to move to the Italian second tier. He only joined Volendam in August 2022.

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