Celtic reportedly have the cash on hand to make Mohamed Elyounoussi's stay in Glasgow permanent. That's according to Alex McLeish who claim that the Hoops are eyeing up a long-term deal for the Norwegian, who has made waves since his arrival at Celtic Park (via Football Insider).

Should Neil Lennon want to make Elyounoussi a certified Bhoy, the club will need to cough up £10million to prise him from Southampton's grasp. This will make the 26-year-old Celtic's record signing and it will be worth every penny.

Celtic must prioritise move for Elyounoussi

Celtic's attack has been struggling this season after falling out of favour in the Premiership due to several shock losses. Their Europa League run will also be weighing heavily on the team morale, having banked just the solitary point so far.

Their star player so far has unarguably been the Southampton loanee. Elyounoussi has notched an impressive ten goals and four assists so far this season, leading Lennon's line with the attacking confidence of a cult hero.

If the Hoops don't make this deal happen, they will see the impact of the striker's absence next season. Elyounoussi is currently contracted until next summer and Ralph Hasenhuttl has already made it known that there could be a spot in the Saints squad for him in 2021/22.

With Southampton looking to potentially integrate the man dubbed a "revelation" by Kris Commons, Celtic must do what they can to secure him to their club. Particularly if Odsonne Edouard opts to leave in search of pastures new, the Bhoys will be extremely short on attacking options. It will leave Lennon will just Leigh Griffiths to lead the line.

This is a deal that Hammond simply must sign off on if the Hoops are to continue their dominant streak.

In other news, Celtic made the correct decision by not signing Leeds’ Luke Ayling...