Celtic sweat on Roberts as clock Tics
CELTIC are facing a Champions League sweat over Patrick Roberts.
And the Parkhead outfit are still awaiting an answer from Stuart Armstrong over signing a bumper new deal. Manager Brendan
Rodgers is chasing winger Roberts and wants him in the squad for the play-off ties against Astana.
But with the first-leg at Parkhead on Wednesday and the deadline for adding a player to the squad for both legs tomorrow, Celts are anxiously awaiting Manchester City’s decision.
Roberts is owned by the Etihad giants and, although he is again not part of Pep Guardiola’s plans for this term and they want to loan him back out, Record Sport understands they would prefer the 20-year-old to stay in England’s top-flight.
Southampton are ready to offer that option but the player himself wants to return to Glasgow.
Roberts enjoyed a successful 18-month loan at Parkhead and has set his heart on being back with the Scottish champions.
He has informed City of his preferred destination but the Manchester giants have not yet decided on whether they will sanction that move and Celtic need an answer today.
Rodgers is assessing attacking options with Moussa Dembele out due to a hamstring injury and Leigh Griffiths having calf issues.
Roberts is the No.1 option but his chances of facing the Kazakhs will evaporate unless City relent and a deal can be struck within 24 hours.
Rodgers is also looking at defenders with Dedryck Boyata and Erik Sviatchenko set for lengthy spells out.
South Africa defender Rivaldo Coetzee is among the targets, with Ajax Cape Town looking for £750,000 for the 20-year-old.
Meanwhile Rodgers also wants a resolution to the Armstrong saga.
With the Scotland star in the last year of his contract, Record Sport understands Armstrong has been made an excellent offer and it’s now down to the player and his representatives agreeing terms and signing.
Southampton and Brighton are considering moves but it’s believed no offers have been made.