Sutton tips Arsenal target to follow same path as Liverpool’s van Dijk

Chris Sutton believes Celtic striker Odsonne Edouard is destined to reach the top of the game and says he’ll follow in the footsteps of Virgil van Dijk when he leaves the Scottish club.

Edouard has been highly impressive since first joining The Hoops back in 2018, scoring 60 goals and assisting a further 31 in 126 appearances.

His displays have seen him linked with a big money move away from Parkhead, with the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United thought to be considering a move for the 22-year-old in the next transfer window.

It has even been reported that the Gunners view Edouard as a replacement for their star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang should he depart the Emirates in the near future, with Mikel Arteta said to be a fan of the French forward.

And Sutton, who played in both the Premier League and Scottish Premier League himself, insists Edouard has the skill set to be a big success if and when he does move to England.

Speaking to the Daily Record, cited on Goal, Sutton said: “The French striker is going to the very top just like Van Dijk and he’s been sensational.

“The striker can do everything. He links the game, he makes runs, he creates and he is a quality finisher.

“Edouard really assumed the mantle of responsibility as [Neil] Lennon chased the nine last season and delivered in emphatic style for his boss and team.”

Since leaving Celtic for Southampton back in 2015, van Dijk has continued to improve and earned himself a £75million switch to Liverpool in January 2018.

During his time at Anfield, he has established himself as one of the top central defenders in Europe and has played a crucial role in Liverpool’s Champions League triumph and title challenges.

It seems likely that Edouard will follow the Dutchman’s path to England, although it is unclear when that will be or which club he will sign for.

Celtic are reportedly hoping to receive around £30million when a deal does happen, which would be their record sale should the asking price be met.

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