Celtic given huge boost in transfer pursuit of 23-year-old star as club chief admits they may have to sell at lower cost

Scottish Sun

a day ago

He was previously rated at around £10million
'WE ARE LOSING MONEY' Celtic given huge boost in transfer pursuit of 23-year-old star as club chief admits they may have to sell at lower cost
CELTIC have been handed a boost in their potential pursuit of a young star on their transfer wishlist.
The Hoops have signed six players already this summer but Brendan Rodgers is still keen to add a few more.
Advertisement
1
Le Havre's French defender Etienne Youte (R) in action
Credit: AFP
One player who has reportedly been targeted is Le Havre defender Etienne Youte.
Earlier this month we told you how Celtic had joined the race for the 23-year-old centre-back.
The highly-rated French defender was previously on the books of Inter Milan and his future at Le Havre is up in the air, with the Ligue 1 side experiencing financial uncertainties.
Youte was a £10million target for West Ham and other clubs last year and at the start of this month, it was reported that Le Havre would accept £4.3m.
Advertisement
With the financial situation worsening and the player in the last year of his deal, they could go even LOWER than that.
West Ham could rekindle their interest and fellow English club Burnley are believed to be monitoring his situation.
And European sides such as Anderlecht and Besiktas are also keeping tabs.
Jean-Michel Roussier, club president, has admitted that Le Havre find themselves in a precarious position.
Advertisement
And it may force them into a sale at a lower price than they value the player.
He said: "We have to sell at a lower cost.
Former Celtic star Greg Taylor stuns PAOK team-mates as he belts out Abba tune for his initiation song
"We are a company that is losing money."
Youte played for Troyes at youth level then moved to Inter Milan where he made 48 appearances for their Under-19s side.
Advertisement
He then headed to Greece four years ago when he joined Olympiacos, but he only played for their B team.
Youte joined Le Havre in 2023 and has won nine caps for the French youth teams.
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page