McLeish ‘heard whispers’ Rangers tried to beat Celtic to Aaron Mooy deal
Alex McLeish has revealed he “heard whispers” Rangers wanted to sign Celtic new boy Aaron Mooy this summer.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Rangers and Scotland manager backed Mooy to be a success at Celtic despite his advancing years.
The Hoops confirmed earlier this week (19 July) that the 31-year-old had signed a two-year deal with the club.
He moved as a free agent after leaving Chinese side Shanghai Port this summer and will be reunited with his former Australia boss Ange Postecoglou.
“In my opinion, I think he’s a really good signing,” McLeish told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“I really liked Aaron Mooy at Brighton, I really thought he was a lovely footballer, he had such a nice touch, penetrative passing and running.
“Ok, the Scottish league is not as strong as the English league and I know he went back to China and played there for a wee while. I think he will make an impact.
“I heard whispers that Rangers were linked with him as well and I thought he would be good signing for Rangers.
“But Celtic have made him one of their priorities so time will tell if he emerges. I’m telling you, he’s a really good player.
“Postecoglou did it last year, he got the Japanese players, the Greek because he used his own knowledge with the help of the analysts.
“You can see all day long that is his choice.”
Mooy has played 96 times in the Premier League across his time with Huddersfield Town and Brighton.
The 51-cap international also played in the Scottish Premiership with St. Mirren between 2010 and 2012.
In other news, Celtic have found their Christopher Jullien replacement after confirmed news.