MOUSSA’S NOT GOING
From Back Page offer for the French marksman which Record Sport understands landed from English Premier League side Brighton.
Italian media yesterday linked Serie A giants Roma with the 21-year-old – with English outfits Crystal Palace, West Brom, Stoke and Everton all monitoring the situation.
But Rodgers admitted the initial offer for Dembele was miles off the Parkhead price tag – and is adamant he’s not interested in selling the Hoops’ star man.
The Celtic gaffer admitted at the weekend the France Under-21 striker was unsettled by the transfer talk and he was left out of the wins against Brechin and Partick Thistle.
But while No.2 Chris Davies suggested the club had accepted Dembele was looking for a move, Rodgers claims the frontman has never spat the dummy or requested a transfer.
And instead of looking to cash in, Celtic are determined to keep hold of their prize asset for the rest of the season.
Rodgers said: “The situation with Moussa is absolutely fine. The boy has two-and-a-half years left on his deal here but there’s a lot of speculation.
“We’ve had one bid that’s come in and it’s way under his value to us. But the message is – we don’t want to sell. Simple as that.”
Rodgers insisted Dembele is not looking for an exit and his focus is on starring for Celtic.
He said: “Moussa’s behaviour has been great.
“Yes, there was a slight focus that moved away, which I can understand and everyone can understand why that is. I have said since my first day in here that I always pick a team on attitude and energy.
“That never changes. But Moussa has been training well. You’ll have seen and heard about players in this situation downing tools or going AWOL.
“This kid has never done that. He has never once asked to leave.
“I know what his plan is from when I sat with him and his agent.
“Moussa knows where he is at and if he’s still here for the second part of the season then he’ll contribute and do well for us.”
Rodgers wants Dembele on board for the run-in – and is adamant Celts will strengthen before the transfer window shuts on Wednesday.
He said: “For me, we have to. There’s no question that’s something we need to do. I’m very happy with the group of players I have.
“We’ll also have some returning from injury who will make us stronger again.
“But we wanted to bring in players in this window who would add quality. Sometimes that takes time.
“I could have signed 20 players up until now. But I needed to make sure it was the right quality, not just domestically but for any European football.”