Celtic transfer target Jesurun Rak-Sakyi has revealed that it was a former Hoops prospect who sold him on a move to Stoke City over Parkhead.
Celtic showed interest in the 23-year-old winger during the January transfer window, but were unable to get a deal over the line. The Celts had made an official offer for Rak-Sakyi in the summer window, but after he moved to Turkey on loan, their interest was renewed in the winter when he was recalled. In the final week of January, Celtic made an official proposal.
However, in the end, Rak-Sakyi opted to join Stoke City on loan until the end of the season. And he was convinced by an unexpected source.
The winger revealed that it was former Celtic prospect Bosun Lawal who had helped him make his decision. In an interview, he said:
"I met [Lawal] through a friend of a friend in football, and we've been friends ever since. He's a good player. I'm very excited to be here, and I can't wait to get started. I want to give my best for this club and try to win the title, also the club, and to score a lot of goals to help the team, and I also want to improve as a player."
Lawal signed for Celtic in 2021 in a move to Glasgow from Watford's academy. He was named the academy's Player of the Year before leaving, so supporters were excited to snatch up a young talent.
The defensive player was regularly playing for Celtic B, and was offered some chances in the first team by the manager at the time, Brendan Rodgers, but in the end was sent out on loan to Fleetwood Town in English League One, who were managed by Celtic legend Scott Brown.
In 2024, he agreed a £3 million move to Stoke on a four-year deal and has been a regular for them this season. His words are what swept Rak-Sakyi away from a Celtic move, despite the Hoops' continued interest in his talents.
Celtic interest could extend to the summer
Celtic clearly want to sign him up, and with Crystal Palace yet to let him leave permanently, could the club renew their interest next season? There is a chance, but it all depends on whether the new manager would like him in their squad.
Both Rodgers and Martin O'Neill fancied him, but that could all change depending on who is appointed as the next head coach. Their style of play could suit Rak-Sakyi to a tee, or it could be the polar opposite of the type of football the winger needs to thrive.
Whatever happens, let's hope "Agent Bos" doesn't sway his attention elsewhere should Celtic come calling.