Celtic face ‘stumbling block’ in completing Man City double deal – pundit
Alan Hutton has suggested potential Celtic loan moves for Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Ko Itakura could break down if Man City demand they are first-choice at Parkhead.
The former Scotland defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested City could stipulate an increased fee for the pair if they are not given extended runs in the side.
According to Sky Sports (25 May), Celtic are considering launching moves for centre-back duo Harwood-Bellis, 20, and Itakura, 25, this summer.
The report claims the Hoops have good relationships with the City Football Group after signing several players from Man City in recent years.
Manager Ange Postecoglou and head of scouting and recruitment Mark Lawwell have both previously held roles within the world-renowned setup.
Hutton suggested the Parkhead club will “always” be able to negotiate with City after fostering positive relations in the past.
When asked if the relationship between Celtic and CFG will have any bearing on negotiations, he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge: “It will help, of course.
“If you’ve done business before in a good fashion and well-mannered, then you can always return to that club.
“Everything will be smooth – and I understand why Celtic have gone back.
“Bringing in these young kids, the only stumbling block for me – the bigger club usually demands that they play most games.
“Usually if they’re not playing, then the fee goes up considerably – so it’ll be interesting to see how they broker that deal.”
Celtic lifted the Scottish Premiership last month and will be playing in the Champions League group stages in the 2022-23 season.
Harwood-Bellis played at Stoke City during the 2021-22 campaign, while Itakura plied his trade at 2.Bundesliga side Schalke.
In other news, Celtic and Wolves race to sign international star for £1.25m.