Forget it Lennon – Celtic would be better off steering away from this 21-year-old Man City starlet

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Why Celtic should avoid signing Manchester City’s Lukas Nmecha

According to Daily Mail (h/t Daily Record), Celtic are watching the progress of Manchester City youngster Lukas Nmecha.

Nmecha, 21, is a product of City’s youth system. He excelled with the club’s youth teams, scoring 50 goals before going out on loan to find regular game time and improve himself. The youngster featured for England in various age-group levels and was also a part of the U19 squad which won the European Championship in 2017 as he scored the winning goal against Portugal in the final.

He has now shifted alliance with Germany and has featured in 8 games for their U21 squad. Nmecha’s time with Wolfsburg and Middlesbrough last season on loan wasn’t fruitful and he needs to improve further. Thus, Celtic should keep their eyes away from the youngster.

Lukas Nmecha played a key role in England's U19 European Championship win in 2017 (Getty Images)
Lukas Nmecha played a key role in England’s U19 European Championship win in 2017 (Getty Images)

Nmecha could be surplus to the requirements of Celtic

Lennon’s men have been brilliant in every department in the last two seasons. However, when the manager brings in new faces, he should make sure that they are established talents who can boost the squad morale. In that regard, they should not make a move for Nmecha.

At the moment, Celtic have a plethora of attacking talents in their ranks. Star striker Odsonne Edouard has been sensational for them since his arrival at Celtic Park. He finished as the league’s top scorer with 21 goals last season but has been linked with a move away from the club.

Even if they decide to sell the Frenchman, the Scottish giants have enough numbers to lead their attack. Winter signing Patryk Klimala received fewer opportunities in the 2019/20 campaign but he has started the new season with a goal to his name. The Polish youngster was in good nick in pre-season and looks to be the future of their attack.

Lukas Nmecha (R) during his loan spell with Middlesbrough (Getty Images)
Lukas Nmecha (R) during his loan spell with Middlesbrough (Getty Images)

Apart from him, they also have Leigh Griffiths, who did well whenever he was called upon. Vakoun Issouf Bayo is another exciting youngster, who can develop into a leader. Thus, with several options up front, Celtic should avoid bringing in centre-forwards as that could make them waste their resources going forward.

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Verdict

With plenty of options in their attacking unit, the Hoops should not make a move for Nmecha, who still needs to develop. Instead, they should look to strengthen other areas on the pitch and make sure they are well-balanced in every department.