Celtic fans eagerly awaiting updates on Adam Idah’s potential move back to Celtic Park will have their eyes on Norwich City’s season opener this Saturday. As the English Championship kicks off, Norwich take on newly promoted Oxford United in a match that could reveal how close the Hoops are to sealing the deal for the Irish striker.
Adam Idah has been an active part of Norwich’s pre-season preparations, despite a few setbacks, including a punishment for missing a flight to Germany. His involvement in Saturday’s match could provide a clear signal of where things stand between Celtic and the Canaries.
If Idah is named in the squad and either starts or comes off the bench during the game, it would suggest that negotiations aren’t quite wrapped up yet. On the other hand, if the Irish international is left on the bench as an unused substitute or is omitted from the squad entirely, it would be a strong indication that a transfer to Celtic is imminent.
The Deal Gets Closer
Celtic finally look to be closing in on Adam Idah after submitting a second bid for the Republic of Ireland international yesterday. The Bhoys know that an offer comprising a total package of £8 million would push a deal over the line. Structurally, supporters have been waiting on tenterhooks to see of the Bhoys can meet Norwich City’s valuation.
Idah cemented himself as an iconic Celtic figure last campaign, registering nine goals in 19 appearances on loan. Despite scepticism upon arrival, the Cork-born frontman has won over the support and the transfer saga involving his future has become the story of the summer. An initial proposal of £4.5 million was turned down by the Canaries earlier in the window. Following various instances of going and froing, it looks like there has been major movement.
Taking to social media platform X, Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph has revealed that Celtic are in ‘advanced talks’ to sign Idah from Norwich.
He stated: “UPDATE: Celtic and Norwich City are now in advanced talks for striker Adam Idah. It’s understood negotiations are centred around a fee in excess of £6m, plus add-ons. Talks are ongoing but there is now a willingness from all parties to conclude a deal.”
In arguably the biggest piece of news in Celtic’s window so far, it looks like Idah may finally be set to move to Parkhead permanently. All parties are striving towards finding a conclusion that will end in the 23-year-old back in green and white, which will come as a major boost to supporters.
The Price of Success
£6 million plus add-ons is a considerable sum. Nevertheless, the modern market is changing, and the Bhoys should be willing to pay for proven quality when it is within their reach.
Idah’s exploits last season were crucial for Celtic. Braces against Hibernian and Motherwell, alongside his goals in Glasgow Derby matches at Ibrox and Hampden, went a long way to securing Brendan Rodgers a domestic double.
The Irishman has made his desire to bring his compatriot back to Parkhead loud and clear. Failing to deliver on his wishes simply wouldn’t cut it in the eyes of the Celtic support.
Hopefully, the transfer can be finalised in the coming days. It has taken a while, but you can almost feel the light at the end of the tunnel.
Rodgers’ Optimism
Brendan Rodgers didn’t dismiss Celtic’s attempts to get Idah in the door during his Friday press conference telling CeltsAreHere – ‘’I’m hoping by the end of the window that can be done, with some others. God willing, we can get that sorted along with one or two other players”
The game is scheduled to kick off at 12:30 PM, live on Sky Sports, so fans should be ready to tune in to see how things unfold. The outcome of Idah’s involvement could give us a much clearer picture of whether he’ll be making a return to Celtic Park in the coming days.
A Bit of Backstory
Based on indications set down in January, Celtic expected the fee asked for Adam Idah to rise to £6m. When the clubs started discussions this close season, Norwich actually asked £10m plus add-ons. We are all entitled to a view on whether Adam is good or poor value at that level, but a £10m+ budget opens the door to many more options across the globe.
For that money, you could have practically any striker in the lower leagues in Germany, Spain and Italy, many in the top flights in those countries, and all but a few in the English lower leagues, where Adam currently plies his trade. That fee changes the consideration from what is Adam’s value, to a comparison with at least a dozen options elsewhere. Norwich and Celtic were both entitled to hold tight for a while.
We have not gone near a fee like that since our old pal Peter was in charge and he authorised a £9m spend (also plus add-ons) for Odsonne Edouard six years ago. Curiously, that transaction was also for a backup striker. The unexpected departure of Moussa Dembele a few weeks later elevated Odsonne ahead of schedule. I expect Michael Nicholson will be keen to authorise a big ticket spend on his watch.
What’s Next?
The transfer saga for Adam Idah is reaching a crucial stage. The upcoming match between Norwich and Oxford United will be a key indicator of the progress made in negotiations between Celtic and Norwich City. While both clubs are eager to finalize a deal, only time will tell if the Irish striker will be back in green and white for the upcoming season. Fans will be keeping a close eye on the developments, hoping for a positive outcome that would see Idah back at Celtic Park. Stay tuned for further updates as this exciting transfer story unfolds.
