Celtic had two bids rejected for John McGinn in the summer but by the time the club matched the offer on the table from Aston Villa the midfielder had already made up his mind.
Speaking about the failed move to his bhoyhood heroes, John spoke of how it was a very difficult time for him.
Admitting he had been a Celtic season ticket holder for 15 years before starting his professional career – the player looked destined to turn out for the Hoops.
However, with Celtic dragging their heels, Aston Villa came in and you have to imagine there was a life-changing amount of money put in front of him.
Even with Celtic matching a bid and Brendan Rodgers personally phoning John while he was down in Birminghman it was too late.
Not being able to lock down a guy who has had a Celtic season ticket for 15-years, is quite extraordinary when you think about it and will be a sore spot for Peter Lawwell.
It worked out in the end for both parties with John doing well for his new club so far and Celtic seeing the emergence of young Ryan Christie.
Speaking to Sky Sports, here’s what John had to say.
WATCH
"It was hard for me, it really was difficult"
John McGinn opens up on how close he came to joining @CelticFC from @HibernianFC this summer before eventually signing for @AVFCOfficial. pic.twitter.com/cpcEjBtJNk
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) December 16, 2018
Look if BR wanted him then he would have been there you can take that to the bank..