Report: Celtic star Ryan Christie wanted by Southampton

Sun 30 May 2021 8:15, UK

After a disappointing campaign, Southampton look set to return to a tried and tested formula in the summer transfer window – judging by reports.

The Saints have produced some inspired pieces of business when signing players from Celtic down the years.

Moves for the likes of Virgil van Dijk, Victor Wanyama, Fraser Forster and Stuart Armstrong have proved to be masterstrokes.

And it now appears that Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side are, once again, on the trail of a current Celtic star.

, Southampton are interested in signing Ryan Christie as he heads into the final few months of his contract at Parkhead.

Christie is in a strange situation heading into next season. , his deal with the Hoops actually expires at the end of the calendar year.

So the Bhoys are potentially under even more pressure to try and get a fee for the 26-year-old unless they hope to agree fresh terms with him.

Christie worth a roll of the dice for Southampton amid Celtic contract situation

Christie was one of a number of Celtic players who underperformed this season.

The attacking midfielder actually managed seven goals and contributed 15 assists in all competitions.

However, he was arguably some way short of looking anywhere near as impressive as he had the previous year.

He ended that campaign with 20 goals in all competitions.

It is not clear from the report how much Southampton are prepared to pay for Christie, nor what Celtic would want.

For the Saints, a move would have the potential to be a real coup.

A host of Premier League rivals have had him on their radar in the last 12 months.

The likes of Arsenal, Leeds United and Newcastle have all been linked with Christie.

And given his contract situation, the Saints may be anticipating that they may not need to pay too much to get him through the St Mary’s door.