Exclusive: PL club tipped to sign Celtic colossus, now in ‘Pole position’ – pundit
Noel Whelan has tipped former Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers to lure Kristoffer Ajer to Leicester City this summer.
The former Leeds and Aberdeen forward, speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Dylan Childs, suggested the Foxes are in “pole position” to land the giant centre-back, 22, given Rodgers’ relationship with the player.
According to Nicolo Schira, an Italian journalist for Gazzetta dello Sport and Il Giornal, Leicester, Arsenal and AC Milan are set to battle it out for the centre-half’s signature.
Ajer has been integral for Neil Lennon’s side this season, making 49 appearances across all competitions.
Current Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers handed the Norway international his debut for the Hoops whilst manager of the club between 2016 and 2019.
When asked by Football Insider if Ajer is destined to exit Parkhead this summer, Whelan said: “Brendan Rodgers knows him and has worked with him before. He must feel he is capable of working in the Premier League.
“You always trust the players you have worked with before because you realise their potential. Brendan must believe he can do a job there.
“They will be in pole position because of that relationship. Also, the style of play they have, he will complement the other players they have at the back.
“If the money is right Celtic will listen I would think.”
Ajer, who stands at 6ft 4in, still has two years left on his current contract having signed a four-year deal in May 2018.
The young defender enjoyed great success under Rodgers.
Together they won two Scottish Premiership titles, two Scottish Cups and three Scottish League Cups under the Northern Irish boss.
In other Celtic news, Kevin Phillips has told Football Insider Neil Lennon will be looking to make a move for ‘younger’ Victor Wanyama in the next transfer window.