Celtic fans won't be happy with Sydney van Hooijdonk's claim

There has been plenty of speculation for a while now about a rumoured Celtic transfer target. The January window was just another opportunity to bring Sydney van Hooijdonk to Parkhead which seemed to be missed, especially as the Hoops were looking for more quality players. But now, it appears that a move to Glasgow might never be on the cards for the Dutchman.

Sydney van Hooijdonk has featured heavily in the Celtic rumour mill for some time, especially given the connection with the club through his father, Pierre, who played for the Hoops in the 1990s. It now seems as though the 24-year-old isn't likely to be following in his footsteps. 

Van Hooijdonk was available on a loan deal from Bologna in January. Of course, Celtic were rumoured to be a likely option.

The Hoops were looking for more options up front. But in an interesting turn of events, Celtic signed Adam Idah on loan from Norwich City, creating the space for Van Hooijdonk to move to the Championship club.

Celtic fans won't be happy with Van Hooijdonk's claim

Van Hooijdonk does not seem to be a fan of the Premiership, rating the English Championship higher than the Scottish top division. As reported by the Daily Record, he said while speaking to Pink Un:

"To be honest, I didn't speak with Celtic this winter.

"You see a lot of things, but this winter, I didn't speak with them. Yes, last summer, there was a bit. It is a lovely club, and I am a fan of them as well, but the Championship and a team that is fighting for the play-offs was really nice. This league is at a higher level than that league, so I'm really happy to be here."

Celtic of course opted for an alternative loan deal in January, bringing in Idah and it has worked out spectacularly well so far. He has made a strong start to life in Glasgow and already scored five goals for the Hoops.

Idah’s style of play has given the team a different option upfront. He may have been prolific at Norwich City, but if he keeps this form up, then a permanent deal with the Hoops in the summer could be a real possibility.

As for van Hooijdonk, he has yet to make a start or score for Norwich City. While it is still early days, Celtic might have just come out on top this time around.