Boyata backs Musonda for the big time

DEDRYCK BOYATA last night dubbed Celtic target Charly Musonda the future of Belgian football. Parkhead boss Brendan Rodgers has set his sights on securing a playmaker of ‘substantial pedigree’ before the end of the window. A product of the Anderlecht academy, Musonda is under contract at Chelsea until 2019. Valued in excess of £5million, Celtic sources say talks are still at an early stage, with a loan deal under consideration. The youngster has been tipped to emulate the likes of Eden Hazard, Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, with countryman Boyata insisting Musonda is a potential star of the future. The Celtic centre-half said: ‘If I

had to bet, I would say yes. But you have to confirm that on the pitch. ‘From what I’ve seen, he is a very, very talented player. ‘When we talk about the future of Belgian football, his name is there. That tells you all you need to know.’ Rodgers declined to expand on his interest in Musonda after Saturday’s 1-1 pre-season draw with Rapid Vienna in Austria. Speaking before Celtic travel to the Czech Republic to face Slavia Prague tomorrow, the Parkhead boss admitted he is in the market for a No 10. ‘He is young, but is a big talent who has experience,’ said Rodgers. ‘It’s good money that will be spent on him. The player I’m talking about is of substantial quality and pedigree.’ Boyata first met Musonda during a trip to Anderlecht’s academy eight years ago and spoke to his countryman in Glasgow in May. ‘He came to watch a game, I think, but I don’t know anything else,’ said Boyata. ‘He seemed impressed, he was happy with the style and the way we played.’