Celtic may have been handed a transfer boost in their pursuit of Le Havre defender Etienne Youte, with the French club under pressure to sell before the summer window closes.
Reports in France have placed Celtic in the frame alongside Anderlecht and Besiktas as clubs keeping tabs on Youte’s situation. The Scottish champions are in the market for defensive reinforcements and view the 6ft 3in defender as a potential addition to bolster Brendan Rodgers’ backline.
Le Havre were understood to be seeking a fee in the region of €5 million (£4.3m), but financial concerns may see that price fall. With the risk of losing Youte for nothing next summer, the Ligue 1 club could be open to negotiating a deal below their original asking price.
For Celtic, it presents an intriguing opportunity. A move for Youte would bring in a physically dominant centre-half with top-flight experience and clear potential to develop further in a more stable, competitive environment.
Le Havre president Jean-Michel Roussier didn’t shy away from the club’s financial struggles when speaking.
He said: (Paris Normadie), “We’re used to it. We have to sell a lower cost, with free agents something we cannot risk. We are a company that is losing money.”
The Hoops have shown a willingness in recent windows to invest in young players with sell-on value, and Youte would fit that model. With Gustaf Lagerbielke sold and Maik Nawrocki out on loan with an option to buy, Rodgers may well view the Frenchman as a long-term solution rather than a short-term fix.
Celtic will need to move quickly, however, with Belgian and Turkish sides also circling. But the chance to secure a promising defender at a reduced cost, while helping Le Havre balance their books, could make this a deal worth pushing over the line.
As ever, timing and negotiation will be key. If Celtic are serious about Youte, they may find a club increasingly willing to talk, and a player eager to test himself on a bigger stage.
