Christie ‘won’t be leaving’ Celtic after Sky update – pundit
Kevin Phillips insists any Burnley swoop for Celtic attacker Ryan Christie is dead in the water.
The Sunderland legend, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, reacted to recent reports regarding Christie’s future.
The Scottish Sun reported on Saturday (21 August) that Southampton and Burnley are keeping tabs on the midfielder’s situation.
The 26-year-old’s contract at Celtic runs out in January, rather than next summer.
Christie’s future has been a hot topic this summer but he has remained in Ange Postecoglou’s plans.
He has made eight appearances this season and scored one goal.
He also recently picked up three assists in one game against Dundee FC in the Premiership.
On 24 August, Sky Sports reported Burnley have agreed a deal for Lyon winger Maxwell Cornet.
Phillips insists this move rules out any potential swoop for Christie.
“I would say that’s dead in the water, he won’t be leaving,” Phillips told Football Insider assistant editor Dylan Childs.
“You can’t say for sure but I think that’s the only outcome now. If they have agreed a deal [for Cornet] that’s it.
“Now that Burnley have gone for someone else, that makes me think they won’t go for Christie at this point.
“Burnley aren’t a club with a lot of money and they won’t sign anyone they don’t have to.
“So I can’t see that deal happening.”
Celtic travel to Ibrox on Sunday for the first Old Firm game of the season.
Christie could be called upon to start after proving to be a regular starter under Postecoglou.
In other news, Kieran Maguire: Celtic primed to make move for ‘transfer target A’ after development tonight.