Journalist claims ex-Celtic star is available this summer

Could Celtic be tempted to try and bring him back after the journalist revealed that he will most likely be available on the cheap this summer?

Celtic have made some impressive moves in the current transfer market. Although they made the same mistake of leaving things too late, which resulted in their elimination from the Champions League qualifiers, it should set them up well for the league campaign. And to be very honest, with 10IAR on the line it has always been the priority this season.

Mohamed Elyounoussi’s loan spell was extended for another season while Vasilis Barkas, Albian Ajeti and David Turnbull have been signed for a combined fee of around £12 million. And the recent acquisition of Shane Duffy on a season-long loan from Brighton and Hove Albion is surely a major coup.

It would be wrong to say though that this current Celtic squad is perfect. There are still improvements which can be made on both ends of the pitch. And right wing is an area which could do with some reinforcements.

James Forrest has been the undisputed starter under Neil Lennon but his performances have come under some criticism in recent times. Some healthy competition would surely do him well and that could come in the form of a familiar face.

Patrick Roberts enjoyed three seasons on loan at Parkhead. And it looked like he was destined to be an absolute superstar judging by his performances in the first two seasons there. Since then though, injuries and a lack of form have derailed his career. In fact, he has been on three separate loans to Norwich City, Girona and Middlesbrough in the past two seasons but has failed to find the back of the net for any of them.

Although he has a contract till 2022, it is unlikely that he’ll ever make it into the Manchester City team. And according to Manchester Evening News journalist Simon Bajkowski, he might be available easily this season. Speaking with Teeside Live, he said:

"“There’s probably more chance of Lionel Messi playing for City than there is Patrick Roberts.“He simply hasn’t forced himself in City’s plans for a long, long time. Players like Jack Harrison have gone on loan and caught the eye and, for whatever reason, Roberts hasn’t been able to do that.“City tied him down until 2022 last year before he went to Norwich on loan. He’s not expected to be part of the first team squad next season so if another team comes in with a loan or permanent offer then they will be listened to.”"

Bringing back Roberts could be a tempting proposition for Celtic. It is likely that he will be available for next to nothing. And if he can rediscover his form at Parkhead, that would be great news for all parties involved.