Celtic-linked Alfie Devine’s future is still up in the air after Preston North End failed to announce a permanent deal for the Tottenham midfielder before the end-of-June deadline.
Preston had looked to be in the strongest position because of the option included in Devine’s loan deal at Deepdale last season. They had the clearest route to sign him, but the deal still had to be completed, and the player’s own decision was always going to matter.
Journalist Alan Nixon reported on X that the situation could become more interesting if Devine had not signed for Preston by midnight on June 30. When asked about the fee, Nixon said Tottenham would deal at “4.5 rising to 6”.
He also said Devine’s agents have strong links with both Spurs and Celtic, which adds another layer if Preston have not managed to get the move done.
For Celtic, the question now is whether they choose to make a move.
Devine is 21 and comes off the back of a good loan spell at Preston, where he played regular senior football and showed he could handle the Championship. This is not just a young player with a Tottenham background. He has already started to prove himself in the senior game.
The fee being talked about is not cheap, but it is not beyond Celtic if they believe Devine can become a key part of the midfield. A deal around £4.5million rising to £6million would need proper belief from the club, especially with Martin O’Neill still needing work done across the squad.
If Arne Engels leaves, another central midfielder becomes a clearer need. Even if he stays, Celtic may still want more legs, quality and depth before the season begins.
Devine would bring a different kind of option. He is young, tidy on the ball and has already been tested in England. The big question is whether Celtic can offer him the minutes and pathway he wants.
Preston could still complete the deal. There is nothing to say they are out of the running. But missing the deadline changes the feel of the story.
Celtic have not been reported to have made a bid at this stage. But July 1 was always the point when things could move. With Devine still not announced by Preston, the next few days should show whether Celtic’s interest becomes more serious.
Keep Reading
