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Celtic have opened initial discussions with Motherwell about signing David Turnbull, according to The Daily Record.
What’s the story?
After Neil Lennon’s appointment as the permanent Hoops boss, he’ll be looking to stamp his own authority on the squad at Celtic Park this summer with a few signings that can freshen up the first-team.
The Record say midfielder Turnbull is one of Lennon’s big targets after an impressive season in the Scottish Premiership, with the club already making a direct inquiry to the Steelmen about what they need to sell him this summer.
With other clubs also interested in signing the teenager, the paper reckon Celtic have asked to be kept informed of any developments on his future over the next few months.
Motherwell’s asking price is reportedly as much as £3m.
How does Neil Lennon turn his doubters into believers? The answer lies in the video below…
Worth that kind of fee?
Players moving between Scottish clubs rarely fetch big fees but Turnbull isn’t your ordinary talent, demonstrating exceptional ability at Scottish Premiership level throughout 2018/19.
With 15 league goals and six league assists, he was one of the most effective attacking talents in the country playing through the middle from midfield and appears to have the kind of direct intent that would make him a big hit at Celtic Park.
Celtic aren’t lacking in that department, with Tom Rogic and Ryan Christie already available, but more competition is beneficial when the player coming in is hungry and has something to prove.
Rogic has been a shadow of his former self over the last 12 months and since the turn of the year in particular, managing to score just five goals across the season amidst fitness and international issues.
A player like Turnbull arriving could perhaps shake him out of his current lull, making him less complacent and more reliable in Neil Lennon’s team.
The Australian seems to be at something of a crossroads in his Celtic career and even if he doesn’t improve, Turnbull could prove to be a long-term replacement in that attacking midfield role.
He’s certainly a young Scottish star worth pursuing and Celtic should be ensuring they beat rivals to his signature.