Celtic expected to make third bid for Dundee United's Johnny Russell
Dundee United have rejected two bids from Celtic for striker Johnny Russell.
- By Ian Roache
- Published in the Courier : 30.01.12
- Published online : 30.01.12 @ 10.11am
As the closure of the transfer window nears, the Hoops are expected to come in with a third attempt to sign the Scotland under-21 international.
The first move by the SPL leaders to try to sign Russell involved their paying a straight £500,000 for the 21-year-old Glaswegian. That was swiftly rejected by United.
Then came a second offer of £500,000 in cash plus a player. That, too, was quickly turned down by chairman Stephen Thompson and his board.
It is understood United value Russell at £1.5 million, meaning there is a massive gap between the clubs as things stand.
However, it is expected that the Hoops won't give up the chase and will be back in before the window shuts at midnight on Tuesday.
Russell is one of the brightest young talents in the Scottish game and it is no surprise that Parkhead boss Neil Lennon has taken note, with his performances against the Hoops having been particularly impressive.
He broke into the Tangerines' first team at the tender age of 17, coming on as a substitute in a game against Falkirk in May 2007.
Loan spells at Forfar and Raith Rovers helped his development and he quickly became a key player for the Scotland under-21s as well as his club.
This season, with the departure of star man David Goodwillie to Blackburn Rovers, Russell has taken on added responsibilities in attack and has contributed 10 goals this season, including a hat-trick in the 6-2 win over Airdrie United in the last round of the Scottish Cup.
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