Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has admitted that fringe midfielder Eboue Kouassi could go out on loan in search of minutes this January.
As reported by the Daily Record, Rodgers is looking at options for the 20-year-old midfield anchorman, who was a £3million signing from Krasnodar a year ago.
The newspaper claim that Rodgers remains convinced that Kouassi will be a star at Parkhead, but recognises the need for the Ivorian to play regular football after making just nine appearances for the club.
“Eboue needs to be playing. It’s a bit like Kris Ajer last season. We can keep him about the squad but he might not play so much. If he goes out and plays it will improve him,” Rodgers said.
“In Eboue’s case, I’m not sure of the benefits of being around if he’s not going to play so much. Does he go and play 20-odd games somewhere in the second half of the season and then come back in the summer? It’s one we need to think about,” he added.
Good move for Celtic?
Considering the price that Celtic paid for Kouassi, there is a definite need to get the Ivorian destroyer playing regular football.
Whether that game time would lead him back to Celtic or to a move away from Glasgow, that does not necessarily matter.
Obviously the Hoops would like him to play a starring role at the club, but failing that they need to secure some return on their £3million investment.
A January loan is a good place to start.
This is Futbol rating: 9/10
Likely to happen?
Rodgers has admitted that Kouassi may be sent out in January, and now all that needs to happen is for someone to come in for him.
Celtic have reaped the benefits of another Scottish club loaning one of their players, with Kristoffer Ajer looking set for a spell in the first-team after his time with Kilmarnock.
A similar deal would be the best option for Kouassi, as it would allow him Scottish football experience.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10