Louis Munteanu has spoken out as talk continues around his future at CFR Cluj, with fresh reports from Romania linking him with a move to Celtic.
The story picked up again after Cluj owner Nelutu Varga revealed a team from France had tabled a much bigger offer of £15.5 million, which he said the club had accepted. That only sparked more noise about Munteanu heading for the exit.
The young striker then missed the match against Rapid Bucharest at the weekend, which added more weight to the idea that he could be on his way out. With all signs pointing to a big move, questions about his future haven’t stopped.
Munteanu has now responded, making it clear he’s tired of all the transfer talk and rumours.
He said: (RecordSport), “I’m a little behind with my preparation, but with training I hope to catch up. It’s not very pleasant on the bench, but that’s it, I’ll do my job.
“If the thought of a transfer flew into my head, I would no longer be here. The thought is not in my head.
“I want to tell you honestly, I’m bored of so many numbers being discussed. I’m here at Cluj.”
Despite the noise around his future, Munteanu insists he’s focused on winning his place back in the Cluj starting eleven. The striker appears ready to move on from time on the bench and is putting in the effort at training to earn his spot again.
Cluj’s decision to turn down the offer from Celtic, and possibly one from France, shows how much they value the 23-year-old and want to keep him, at least for now.
Munteanu’s response might also act as a message to other clubs – if they want him, they’ll need to meet Cluj’s asking price and understand that he’s currently focused on staying put in Romania.
But things can change quickly in football, especially for a young forward. If Munteanu starts hitting form soon, the interest around him will only grow stronger in the weeks ahead.
