Celtic striker Moussa Dembele has been linked with a Premier League move all-winter, with Brighton and Hove said to be seriously interested in securing an £18million deal for the Frenchman.
However, the Seagulls appear to have effectively ended their pursuit of the 21-year-old by securing the services of another striker – PSV’s Jurgen Locadia, per Daily Record.
The club landed the Dutch striker for £14million, making him their club record signing in the process.
Hoops boss Brendan Rodgers had expressed concerns over the mental state of Dembele, who was clearly distracted by the exit rumours that refused to go away.
Both manager and player can now fully concentrate on the job ahead, although the rumors aren’t expected to go completely all away, with other EPL sides still keen on his signature.
While a January exit looks to be off the table for Dembele, nothing can be assured by summer, as the player himself has eyes set on a big move.
Celtic are already preparing themselves for bids from suitors for his signature, but now have enough time to prepare for life without him before the next transfer window opens.
Despite suffering a dip in form, the former Fulham man remains top priority to the Scottish giants, and news of Locadia’s arrival to Brighton will be good music to Celtic’s ears.
