Scottish Premiership side Celtic are now in advanced talks to sign Norwich City striker Adam Idah permanently, according to the Daily Record.
Idah spent the second half of last season on loan in Glasgow, having failed to establish himself as a regular goalscorer during his time at Carrow Road.
However, he proved to be a big success north of the border, scoring plenty of goals for Brendan Rodgers’ side during his time there and making some vital contributions.
Scoring the winner in the Scottish Cup final against Rangers and also playing a part in guiding the Bhoys to the Scottish Premiership title, he certainly made a difference during his short stay at Celtic Park.
However, it was previously unclear whether Rodgers’ side would be able to get a deal over the line for the striker, who remains under contract at Norwich until the summer of 2028, putting them in a strong negotiating position.
There has been speculation about the futures of other Norwich players in recent months too, with their failure to secure a Premier League return at the second time of asking potentially set to have consequences.
The likes of Jonathan Rowe, Gabriel Sara and Josh Sargent may all attract plenty of interest in the coming weeks, with vultures potentially set to circle following May’s play-off heartbreak.
But having sold the likes of Max Aarons and Andrew Omobamidele for big fees last summer, they may not be forced to cash in on many of their key players before the summer transfer window closes.
Celtic are close to signing Adam Idah
The Daily Record have reported that the Scottish side made their move for Idah yesterday and that talks between the two teams are now at an advanced stage, ahead of an agreement being struck.
With “significant” progress thought to have been made on the deal, an agreement isn’t believed to be far away and the player looks set to be given permission to discuss personal terms, ahead of a medical.
Idah was previously scheduled to spend pre-season with the Canaries, with Johannes Hoff Thorup keen to assess him, but the player made it clear that he wanted to return to his former loan club.
With his contract situation in mind, Norwich could have taken a firmer stance on the Republic of Ireland international, but an early-summer move seems to be on the horizon.
Norwich City may have mixed feelings about Adam Idah’s imminent departure
Idah could have been a great asset at Carrow Road next term.
With the player full of confidence and potentially having a fresh start under a new manager, this could have been the striker’s time to establish himself as a real asset in Norfolk.
His contract doesn’t expire for another four years and with other attacking players being linked with moves away from the Canaries, retaining Idah could have been ideal.
However, the money generated from the forward’s likely sale could help to boost Thorup’s budget.
That is ideal for a manager who will want as much money in his kitty as possible to put his stamp on things.
