It looks like it’s going to be a big summer for Odsonne Edouard.
The Celtic striker has continued his impressive individual form despite his side’s fight, and although Hoops are not keen on releasing him, they may soon have no choice.
Edouard’s contract expires at the end of next season, and there has been no indication that he plans to sign a new one soon.
This has drastically weakened the club’s negotiating position – a year ago they ordered £ 40 million, but reports suggest they will now accept bids in the £ 15-20 million range.
His newfound availability has opened the door for a number of clubs to see value in a player who has scored 81 goals in 163 appearances in Scotland, and 90 minutes has steered the serious challengers for his signature.
Aston Villa have been linked to a move for Edouard | CATHERINE IVILL / Getty Images
News of Villa’s interest made sense a year ago when they were desperately looking for a regular goal scorer. But now they’ve found it now in Ollie Watkins.
Unless the new England hat is sold, it is hard to imagine that it is high on their priority list to sign a new striker – especially one at a similar stage of his development.
Villa also seem to miss European football, so even if their interest is genuine, Edouard may have more enticing options on the table.
Suitability assessment: 4/10
Marcelo Bielsa has established Leeds in top flight LINDSEY PARNABY / Getty Images
Leeds have had a strong consolidation season back in top flight, but they need to improve before they can compete for Europe. For this purpose, they have been linked to Edouard – which seems like the level of player they should be looking at.
Stylistically, it would fit well. Edouard runs into the ground from the ball and has the first touch and pace to thrive in Marcelo Bielsa’s demanding system.
It is possible that he may be tempted by the project on Elland Road, but he must be convinced that they are on their way to the table rather than just settling down.
Suitability assessment: 5/10
Paulo Fonseca needs a contingency plan for Edin Dzeko | Silvia Lore / Getty Images
With Edin Dzeko coming to the end of his career in Rome, the Italian side are looking for a new number nine, and reports have suggested they see Edouard as the perfect replacement.
It’s pretty easy to see why. Edouard has more subtlety in his game and lacks a bit of the physical presence that Dzeko imposes, but he is an incredibly good attachment striker – something that Roma lacks outside of their Bosnian talisman.
There are serious questions here – namely whether Roma will have an extra £ 15-20 million this summer, and that may depend on whether they qualify for Europe.
A move to Serie A would be bold from Edouard, but after coming to Scotland to prove himself away from PSG’s glare, a move back to mainland Europe may be just what he’s looking for.
Suitability assessment: 6/10
Mikel Arteta wants a new striker this summer | Catherine Ivill / Getty Images
The Gunners are looking for a new striker this summer, and with Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah’s 2022 contract, reports suggest Edouard is one of the options on the table.
In many ways, it seems like the reasonable next step. It used to be a reluctance of major Premier League clubs to buy directly from Scotland, with Victor Wanyama and Virgil van Dijk needing a stop at Southampton before landing big moves, but Kieran Tierney is living proof that this is no longer the case.
About £ 20 million seems to fit into Arsenal’s budget, especially if Lacazette is sold. And with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang until 2023, Edouard would have a year or two to settle before he is expected to become principal.
All in all, it is logical, but it may depend on how strong Mikel Arteta’s team ends the season.
Suitability rating: 7/10
Rodgers brought Edouard to Celtic | David Geieregger / Getty Images
Leicester have been tipped as favorites to land the Frenchman, and with good reason. Edouard and Brendan Rodgers have an excellent relationship; it was the Northern Irishman who originally brought him to Glasgow on loan and then pushed to make the deal permanent.
Edouard is very indebted to Rodger’s coach so it is obvious that he would be keen to join the Premier League. If the Foxes can continue and qualify for the Champions League, it would sweeten the deal even further.
As for Leicester, Kelechi Iheanacho shows serious promise, but they need another striker they can trust in the long run. Jamie Vardy will not stay forever, and Edouard – even though he is only 23 – already looks ready to take the Premier League by storm.
Celtic may not be keen to negotiate with Rodgers after his sour resignation, but there will be a new regime in Parkhead in the summer that will likely be happy just to resolve Edouard’s situation. Suitability rating: 8/10
