Hoops set to land Arzani as Forrest eyes a deal for life
RODGERS DOES BUSINESS AS ACTION BEGINS
DANIEL ARZANI last night edged closer to his Celtic move as James Forrest revealed he is ready to become a Hoop for life.
The Australian teenager is in Manchester after flying from his homeland to finalise his transfer to City from Melbourne City.
Arzani, 19, is due to agree a move to the English champions before being immediately farmed out on a long-term loan deal to Parkhead.
Ahead of today’s Ladbrokes Premier League kick-off, boss Brendan Rodgers is scouring the globe for more additions and the gaffer is adamant deals will be done. Asked if the squad would be strengthened, he said: “Yes, most definitely. There is no doubt we need to strengthen and that is something the club are very much aware of.”
Forrest is into the final year of his current deal but Rodgers has made it crystal clear he wants the 27-year-old to stay. The winger said: “I’d obviously be absolutely delighted with that and would love to get that done.
“I’ve still got time here but if the club make it clear they want to give me a new contract I’d be delighted to do it.”
Forrest has won 14 senior medals during his spell in the top team – the same as legend Danny Mcgrain who will unfurl the league flag today.
Forrest could become one of the club’s most decorated men if he stays and he said: “Danny is a club legend.
“He’s at the training ground every day, even all the foreign lads appreciate him and what he has done for the club.
“You look at him and you definitely take inspiration from him.”
Leigh Griffiths returns to the
Celtic squad today after recovering from a thigh strain but fellow striker
Moussa Dembele faces another two to three weeks out with his hamstring injury.
Jozo Simunovic is back from suspension after missing the Champions League qualifiers against Rosenborg but Belgium defender Dedryck Boyata is not ready to feature following his World Cup exploits.