Celtic boss drops hint on future of Arsenal-linked £30m hotshot

Celtic manager Neil Lennon has delivered a blow to Arsenal’s hopes of signing Scottish Premiership top scorer Odsonne Edouard with his latest comments.
The France under-21 international went from strength to strength this season, notching 28 goals in all competitions as The Hoops conquered Scotland for the ninth successive time.
The 22-year-old was an integral part of that success, finishing the season as the league’s top scorer with 22 strikes, a whopping nine goals better than second-placed Rangers veteran Jermain Defoe.
His rapid rise has led to speculation of a switch down south to Arsenal, with Gunners legend Thierry Henry previously giving the potential move his seal of approval.
Reinforcements in the forward ranks may become a priority for manager Mikel Arteta this summer as the uncertainty over the long-term future of star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang continues to rumble on.
But one player who Arsenal now appear unlikely to be able to tempt to North London is Edouard.
Speaking at an awards ceremony after being named Scottish Football Writers Manager of the Year, Celtic boss Lennon revealed the club have opened fresh contract talks over extending the Frenchman’s stay at Parkhead.
“There are discussions at the minute with his [Edouard’s] representatives,” said the Celtic boss (via Goal).
“Ultimately he’s a player we want around. He’s a fantastic player. He’s really blossomed over the last couple of seasons.
“He had a magnificent season this year and we want to keep him. It’s as simple as that. We’re doing everything we can to keep him here for at least another season anyway.
“I think he is [happy]. I think he’s got a fantastic relationship certainly with me and my backroom team and his team-mates.
“You can see how much the supporters appreciate him as well. I think that’s reciprocated.
“He’s grown into a top-class striker. Of course, there is going to be speculation around a player of that quality.
“But we’re comfortable at the minute with the position we’re in with him.”