Celtic transfer news: Journalist claims Sharp has snubbed January switch

by Jack Saville @JackSaville_

2 minute read 7/1/2020 | 07:20pm

Rumours emerging at the beginning of the January transfer window strongly suggest that Celtic are in the market for a new striker this month, but it seems one target can already be crossed off the list of potential arrivals.

What’s the word?

According to a recent report from The Sunday Post, Neil Lennon is eyeing up two strikers in a bid to bolster his attacking options.

The report identifies Andraz Sporar and Billy Sharp as the players who Celtic want to bring to the club this month, but they have received a blow in their bid to sign the latter.

Daily Mirror journalist David Anderson, who predominantly covers the Yorkshire-based clubs, has poured cold water over the recent links, suggesting Sharp has snubbed the advances of the Scottish champions.

A few transfer titbits – Billy Sharp has snubbed Celtic and Forest to stay with Sheffield United, Rhian Brewster will complete his loan move to Swansea from Liverpool in the next 24 hours and Ben Gibson is open to offers to leave Burnley because of his lack of game time.

— David Anderson (@MirrorAnderson) January 6, 2020

Focus on Sporar

Given Sharp is 33 years old and would almost certainly be playing second fiddle to Odsonne Edouard at Paradise, it’s no surprise that he has taken this stance.

But perhaps this is a blessing in disguise for Celtic under the circumstances.

The snub should allow them to focus their efforts on bringing Sporar, a player who could actually challenge Edouard in the long-term.

That Sharp has scored 114 goals in 322 Championship appearances is certainly impressive but now he’s entered the twilight of his career it seems rather nonsensical for Celtic to sign him – even if the deal was only a temporary one.

Is Sharp news a blow?

Yes - proven finisher

No - too old

Lennon should be looking to bring players into the club who can make an impact both this season and beyond, and the 25-year-old hitman Sporar certainly fits that profile more than Sharp.