Champions League clubs enter race to sign Patrick Roberts

Celtic were always going to be facing an uphill battle to keep Patrick Roberts at the club for the 2017/18 season.

The Manchester City youngster has spent the last 18 months at Parkhead and has become a real fan favourite, playing an instrumental part in Celtic’s undefeated domestic campaign this past season, scoring 11 goals and providing 19 assists in 47 appearances across all competitions.

Roberts is eager to have his future sorted out as soon as possible and it appears as if City will be loaning the England U20 out again next season and Celtic want to be the club that takes him.
However, there is increased competition for him for a number of reputable clubs from across Europe.

According to the Mirror, Liga NOS side Sporting and Ligue 1 outfit OGC Nice, both of whom will be playing the Champions League next season along with Celtic, as well as Bundesliga sides Schalke and Hoffenheim are interested in signing the former Fulham youngster.

Celtic are hopeful of striking a deal for the 20-year-old attacker on a permanent basis but it remains to be seen if City are going to agree to such a deal.

If a loan move is the decided future for Roberts, a return to Celtic Park where he has a real affinity with the fans and knows the club inside out makes too much sense.