Arsenal given double lift as source claims 2021 deal to sign Celtic star is on

James Marshment 30 Oct 2020 4:43 PM

Arsenal appear to have the green light to sign Celtic striker Odsonne Edouard in either January or summer 2021, according to a report.

Edouard hit 28 goals for Celtic in the aborted 2019/20 season as they equalled a Scottish record by sealing a ninth consecutive title win.

And the France U21 striker already has six from nine appearances this season, taking his tally to 68 from 135 games.

The French striker’s future has been the subject of speculation following his impressive form, which has seen him named Celtic’s player of the year.

Such form has seen him mentioned as a target for Arsenal as a potential long-term replacement for Alexandre Lacazette. The former Lyon man is Arsenal’s top scorer so far this season, with three goals. However, he is frequently linked with a move away and could be sacrificed by the Gunners.

Now according to football.London, Edouard has now reached a level where he is too good to stay in Scotland. The source has confirmed that Arsenal have been tracking him and are ready to make their move in 2021.

It is not, however, certain whether a move will be in January or summer 2021. All the same, the report claims Arsenal are convinced Edouard has what it takes to score goals in the Premier League.

They feel his unselfish nature would thrive at Arsenal and he’d be a perfect link man to bring others into play.

Furthermore, the Daily Record claims the striker himself has suggested this will be his last season in Glasgow.

“I’ve been here for three years, and for sure when the time comes I’ll think about leaving,” he said. “I’m look for a higher league. Right now I’m focused on this season. When the right time comes I’ll make the decision to go.”

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Tierney to help with Edouard negotiations

It’s also claimed Kieran Tierney could prove an influential figure in Arsenal’s bid to sign Edouard.

The full-back also made the move from Parkhead to Emirates Stadium and has thrived in the Premier League.

Tierney made 25 appearances for Arsenal last season but has eight already this. Tierney has played in five of Arsenal’s six Premier League games so far and has emerged as a first choice in Arteta’s side.

It’s likely Tierney could help persuade his former teammate to opt for a move to the Gunners. With a number of other clubs also linked, Arsenal are likely to face competition from rival sides.

Tierney cost Arsenal £25m in summer 2019, with the deal largely paid in installments. Arsenal would look to negotiate a similar arrangement for Edouard.

Odsonne Edouard