Celtic came close to signing Bauyrzhan Islamkham this season from Kazakhstan Premier League’s Kairat Almaty, according to the player’s agent.
Daguev Timur, who represents the 24-year-old, shared that the Hoops were set to sign Islamkham but pulled out of a deal as they doubted his ability to physically compete in the Scottish Premier League.
“Celtic looked at Bauyrzhan very closely and liked him a lot,” said Islamkham’s agent, as quoted by the Scottish Sun.
“They liked the fact he is an intelligent player and thought he was up to the standard of their club.
“But you know what British football is like and how physical it can be.
“Celtic weren’t completely convinced he would be able to handle the physical side of the game and pulled out.
“It’s a shame because in terms of ability, he has everything and is certainly technically gifted.”
The attacking midfielder is the captain of Kairat Almaty and was in fantastic form for his club last season.
Islamkhan scored 11 goals, while creating 14, for his side in 30 appearances across all competitions during the last campaign, which helped his side finish runners-up in the league.
OPINION
Well this is a disappointing read for Celtic fans, as Islamkham would have been a decent signing. The 24-year-old may be playing his football in Kazakhstan but the attacking midfielder has previously impressed in the Europa League. Islamkhan was a key member of his side when Kairat Almaty eliminated Aberdeen from the Europa League three years ago, and he has only gotten better since then. The 24-year-old has plenty of experience in the Europa League and Celtic probably should have taken a chance on him. While they’re right to be concerned about the physical demands of the Scottish Premier League, with Islamkhan being only 24-year-old, he had plenty of time to adapt his game accordingly.