Why Fulham should sign Dedryck Boyata from Celtic

According to reports, Premier League newcomers Fulham are targeting Belgium World Cup star Dedryck Boyata.

Boyata, who plays club football for Celtic, has been in sublime form for Belgium at the World Cup, helping the Red Devils secure victories in their three group games – which saw them pip England to the top spot.

The 27-year-old has 12 months left on his current Celtic contract and his impressive form in Russia have seen him garner attention from across Europe, including Fulham.

Celtic don’t want to sell Boyata but could be tempted to cash in on the Belgian this summer if he doesn’t extend his stay at Parkhead.

Agreed, Boyata has displayed inconsistent form at Celtic since joining from Manchester City back in 2015 but he has excelled for Belgium at this summer’s World Cup in Russia.

He started all three of Belgium’s group games, displaying solid awareness in a three-man defence alongside Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld. But he was cruelly left out of the side during the last-16 win over Japan as Vincent Kompany returned from injury.

Apart from his World Cup displays, Boyata also had a stellar campaign with Celtic this past season, making 39 appearances in all competitions as Brendan Rodgers’ side completed a second successive treble in Scotland. The 27-year-old is prone to making mistakes but has come a long way under the tutelage of Rodgers.

With his eye-catching performances in Russia, Boyata has surely done enough to increase his value and worth. Fulham need reinforcements this summer to compete with the teams in the Premier League. One area Slavisa Jokanovic must prioritise strengthening is his defence.

Tim Ream and Denis Odoi formed a centre-back pairing that saw the Cottagers win promotion. Marcelo Djalo struggled to make an impact after joining from Lugo last summer, meaning Fulham are lacking competition and depth in the heart of the defence.

A defender of Boyata’s quality would strengthen Fulham’s defence whilst also add depth to their squad.

The Cottagers have the financial muscle to compete with the bigwigs in the transfer market and must simply try luring Boyata to Craven Cottage. After making just 12 league appearances for Manchester City, the Belgian could relish the opportunity to prove himself in the Premier League after winning every domestic trophy with Celtic.

Jokanovic would look to avoid a relegation battle, so bringing in Boyata bodes well as the player has already experienced the fierceness of the Premier League before. Without any second thoughts, Fulham must test Celtic’s resolve this summer.