It is safe to say that Celtic are not in a position where they can challenge top teams in Europe. The 3-0 loss at the hands of AS Roma was proof of that. Now, Wilfried Nancy has faced his fair share of criticism for the number of changes that he is trying to implement at the moment. That being said, it is also true that he does not have a good or deep enough squad at this disposal right now.
There are a number of positions across the pitch where Celtic still need to strength. Perhaps the most urgent need is up top.
Celtic have not signed a quality striker for a while. On the other hand, they have seen the likes of Kyogo and Adam Idah leave. Daizen Maeda has also been tipped for a January exit. At the same time, the likes of Kelechi Iheanacho and Callum Osmand have picked up injuries, leaving them further short of options up top.
So, it would not come as a surprise if the club tried to sign a striker in the upcoming winter transfer window. And one of the players being linked with them is Wessam Abou Ali of Columbus Crew.
'Didn’t know who Wilfried was' - Celtic handed striker transfer blow
There were hopes that the connection with Nancy could work in favour of Celtic when it comes to a future move for Ali. But now, it looks like that won't play much fo a role at all.
As reported by 67 Hail Hail, general manager Issa Tall said:
"Wessam did not sign because we had Wilfried Nancy. He didn’t know who Wilfried was. So, Wessam came for the Columbus Crew and he needs to stay because it’s the Columbus Crew."
It is safe to say that Ali is a quality striker. He has found goals wherever he has been at so far in his career. So, it was easy to see why Celtic were being linked with him. But now, it looks like a move is unlikely. He only played five games under the management of Nancy, not nearly enough for the Frenchman to have built up a strong relationship with the player that would convince him into a move to Parkhead immediately.