Jesurun Rak-Sakyi is a name that cropped up in the Celtic transfer rumour mill almost out of nowhere. Before deadline day, news emerged that both the Hoops and the Rangers had made a loan approach for the Crystal Palace winger. But ultimately, that led nowhere and there were no further updates on the situation. Now, we know why.
It looks like Crystal Palace were open to the idea of Rak-Sakyi leaving, but only on a permanent basis or on a loan deal with an obligation to buy. And the transfer fee that they wanted to part ways with the winger is what proved to be the stumbling block for clubs like Celtic and the Rangers.
As reported by Glasgow Times, journalist Mark Hendry wrote on his Substack that Crystal Palace were asking for £12 million for the 22-year-old winger. The fee was deemed too high by the Scottish clubs.
Ultimately, Rak-Sakyi has remained at Crystal Palace. On the other hand, Celtic did sign a winger on deadline day, bringing in Sebastian Tounekti from Hammarby for a transfer fee believed to be in the region of £5.2 million.
Real reason Celtic decided not to sign Jesurun Rak-Sakyi
Of course, Celtic have faced a ton of criticism for how they handled their transfer business this summer. But it is hard to disagree with them in this instance.
Rak-Sakyi is not proven at the top level. Yes, he has had decent spells in the Championship and League One, but we are yet to see what he is capable of in Crystal Palace coulours.
On the other hand, it is not hard to understand Crystal Palace's stance either. The £12 million fee would not have turned out to be a stumbling block for any Premier League club. But it is a huge figure for Scottish teams.