Sebastian Tounekti has made an interesting start to life at Celtic Park. He was signed on deadline day of the summer window, and it went under the radar as the fans were waiting for a striker to be brought in. The Tunisian international has done pretty well since arriving though. His output has not been eyecatching but overall, he is one of the few players who seems to be capable of coming up with something out of nothing and getting the fans off their seats.
Even without the output, Tounekti is drawing high-profile interest. He is already being linked with a move to the Premier League. Leeds United are believed to be keeping an eye on the Celtic winger if rumours are on the mark.
It has only been a few months since Celtic signed Tounekti though. Would they be open to the idea of him leaving so soon afterwards?
Pete O'Rourke does not seem to believe so. As reported by Football Insider, the journalist said regarding the situation of Tounekti, Celtic and Leeds United:
"It’s a strange link, I think, he only arrived at Celtic on deadline day when he joined from Hammarby.
“He has made an immediate impact, he’s an exciting winger who can score and create goals, he’s got two goals in 11 appearances for Celtic so far.
“It would be a massive surprise if Celtic were even considering letting him go so early into his Celtic career as well.
“I don’t think Celtic will be open to letting the Tunisia international leave."
Celtic stance on Sebastian Tounekti leaving amid Leeds United links
Of course, there is so much more to come from Tounekti, if he can add goals and assists to his game. For some, it does take a bit of time. Just look at Matt O'Riley's trajectory at the club.
At one point, he was struggling to get ahead of Aaron Mooy in the pecking order. The following season, he had a remarkable campaign in terms of goals and assists, earning himself a £25 million to the Premier League. That is how quickly things can change for players. Once it clicks, it becomes a lot easier. Hopefully, that will happen with Tounekti as well.
As for the interest from Leeds United, Celtic should not consider the idea of his exit anytime soon. Then again, there is one thing we do know, if the right offer comes in, the club are likely to accept it, no matter who it is or how long they have been at Parkhead.