Borussia Dortmund have given Celtic a clear move to transfer Cole Campbell
Celtic are now working on a deal for Borussia Dortmund striker Cole Campbell, having identified him as a ‘clear’ target.
Martin O’Neill’s side are on the hunt for a new right-back, with Motherwell star Elijah Just among the targets, after the New Zealand international’s 47-cap hat-trick and three goals in as many World Cup appearances.
Campbell, who is eligible for selection in the USA and Iceland, is not very experienced, he is only 20 years old, he played only seven games for Borussia Dortmund before being sent on loan to Hoffenheim last season.
The Texas-born player is yet to prove himself at first-team level, appearing just five times for Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga, but the Hoops are now looking to offer him a path to senior football.
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Football FanCast verdict |
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Honesty |
Celtic are keen to strengthen their attacking options, and are in a good position to complete a deal for Just, who registered 15 goals in the Scottish Premiership last season. In fact, Motherwell’s star might be able to make an immediate impact, while Campbell could be for the future, given his limited experience. |
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Finance |
Despite failing to make the grade at Dortmund so far, the German side are still planning a £6m move. As such, Hoops measures the first move of the loan. |
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Understanding |
Although the youngster has yet to make a mark in senior football, he has been successful for Dortmund at youth level, picking up 12 goals and 14 assists in 35 games for the U19 team. Scout Jacek Kulig hailed the American as an “outstanding” midfielder, while praising his athleticism and playmaking ability. |
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Impact |
Should Celtic decide to leave, they may have to shelve plans to sign Just, which could be a mistake, given the New Zealander’s proven record in the Scottish Premiership. |
Celtic are working for Cole Campbell
According to a report from Football Insider, Celtic are now considering bringing Campbell on loan, because they are not willing to pay Dortmund’s £6m asking price.
The Bundesliga giants are very open to an exit, and are happy with a permanent deal or loan, suggesting a move to Parkhead is possible.
Elijah Just should be the most sought-after right-back for Celtic
Campbell had a torrid time on loan at Hoffenheim last season, appearing for just 74 minutes in five Bundesliga games, during which time he failed to register a single goal or assist.
On the other hand, he made his mark on the big stage, netting two goals in New Zealand’s 2-2 World Cup opener against Iran, before finding the net in a 5-1 thrashing by Belgium.
Furthermore, the 26-year-old has already proven himself in the Scottish Premiership, registering seven assists last season, which was more than any Celtic player, apart from Kieran Tierney.
With that in mind, the Motherwell midfielder should be Celtic’s first choice, and Campbell will be a huge threat to O’Neill’s side.
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