Revealed: Celtic stance on Sebastian Tounekti sale after Leeds reveal
Sebastian Tounekti has enjoyed a strong start to life snice joining Celtic despite what has been a chaotic season so far at Parkhead.
The 23-year-old joined Celtic from Hammarby IF on deadline day in a deal worth around £5.2million, and has quickly become a key player in the side.
Despite the ongoing managerial situation at Celtic, with Martin O’Neill in the post as interim boss after Brendan Rodgers resigned, it has not impacted Tounekti’s form.
Since joining Celtic, the winger has scored two goals in 12 appearances and has quickly become one of the most exciting players in O’Neill’s side.
However, those performances have attracted interest in his signature, with Premier League outfit Leeds United now keeping tabs on his situation.
Celtic respond to Leeds’ interest in Sebastian Tounekti
Leeds United are determined to sign a new winger in the January transfer window, and have reportedly set their sights on Tounekti in their search for options.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Celtic have no plans to lose the winger so soon after he arrived in Glasgow, and it would be a “massive surprise” to see him leave the club any time in the near future.
Tounekti signed a long-term deal when he arrived in the summer, with his contract running until 2030, placing the Hoops in a strong position with regard to his exit.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, I explained: “It’s a strange link, I think, he only arrived at Celtic on deadline day when he joined from Hammarby.
“He has made an immediate impact, he’s an exciting winger who can score and create goals, he’s got two goals in 11 appearances for Celtic so far.
“It would be a massive surprise if Celtic were even considering letting him go so early into his Celtic career as well.
“I don’t think Celtic will be open to letting the Tunisia international leave.
“We know Leeds are in the market for attacking reinforcements in January if they can find them.
“I just don’t see Celtic being open to selling to Tounekti in January and as I said, the player has only arrived at the club, I’m sure he’s happy to stay and continue playing for Celtic as well.”
This comes as Celtic could build their squad around Tounekti, having shown his talents despite his short time in Glasgow, and having impressed O’Neill.
Daniel Farke makes Leeds United transfer plan
Football Insider revealed on 14 September that Leeds are planning to sign a new striker and winger as a result of their lack of attacking threat this season.
The major concern at Elland Road since returning to the Premier League is their form in front of goal, having scored just seven goals in eight league games.
Meanwhile, former Man United chief scout Mick Brown warned Football Insider on 16 September that Leeds are in big trouble as a result of their lack of firepower.
Football Insider revealed on 7 September that Leeds are concerned about their attacking options, and could look to bolster their squad in January.
Daniel Farke is determined to bring in reinforcements in attacking areas as Leeds continue to fight against the growing odds of relegation.
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