Jamie Vardy has ended speculation over his next move by agreeing a deal to join Serie A newcomers Cremonese, reportedly rejecting the chance of a reunion with Brendan Rodgers at Celtic. [Mirror Sport]
The 38-year-old has been a free agent since leaving Leicester City at the end of last season, bringing the curtain down on a remarkable spell that included a Premier League title, an FA Cup win, and over 170 goals for the Foxes.
Unsurprisingly, his availability attracted attention across Europe, with Celtic among the clubs loosely linked given Rodgers’ history of success working with him in England.
Rodgers managed Vardy during Leicester’s FA Cup-winning campaign and was said to be considering a short-term move to bolster Celtic’s frontline. With Adam Idah edging closer to a departure and the Hoops in the market for attacking reinforcements, a reunion with the veteran striker had been floated as a possibility.
The newly promoted side have acted decisively to bring in the former England international, who is expected to travel to Cremona, south of Milan, in the coming days to finalise the move.
Vardy’s decision ensures his career will take in a new chapter in Italy, a league he has never played in before, as Cremonese look to use his experience and goalscoring instincts to establish themselves in Serie A.
For Celtic, the development ends any faint hope of a shock Parkhead arrival. While Vardy’s name carried intrigue among supporters, Rodgers’ recruitment team are focused on long-term solutions.
Vardy’s move to Italy may have closed one potential door, but it highlights the urgency facing Celtic as they continue to reshape their squad.
With just days remaining in the window, the Hoops are under pressure to secure the attacking quality required for both domestic dominance and a strong European run.
