Why Celtic must act quick and sign Ghana-born forward Elvis Azah

Celtic have been enduring disappointing times recently. The Hoops crashed out of the Champions League after a 2-3 aggregate defeat against AEK Athens, while they also lost 0-1 against Hearts. Those results show that Brendan Rodgers needs reinforcements as soon as possible, because his team is facing stern competition for the title from the likes of Rangers, Hearts and Aberdeen.

Earlier this year, there were reports that the Scottish champions are interested in Elvis Azah. The player can play on the wing or further forward in the attack, and has previously had trials at Manchester United and Everton. The youngster also had a brief spell with Celtic, even scoring against Partick Thistle in a youth game. He was born in Ghana but moved to the Republic of Ireland when he was 11, and recently received Irish citizenship.

Azah has represented the Republic of Ireland at under 15 and under 16 level and played junior football with Deen Celtic (a club in Co. Kilkenny), and Waterford. He has been progressing well in recent times, with Arsenal, Tottenham and West Ham among the clubs following his development.

At just 17, Azah might not make an instant impact, but Celtic have been looking at him this year, and may need to move quickly to secure him. They would know what he’s capable of and would know what to expect.

Something else which shouldn’t be underestimated is that Brendan Rodgers is a manager who likes giving young players chances and is patient with them. Even though it might be tempting for the player to sign for one of the Premier League giants, Celtic might be a wiser choice for Azah.

But the Hoops must act fast as well. The player is obviously talented and promising and it comes as no surprise that there’s interest in him from elsewhere. His pace, acceleration, ball control and ability to beat players are some of his best traits, and he’ll surely continue to improve and get better with time.

It will be a great move for Celtic if they can secure Azah’s signature. They could get one of the best players to come out of the Republic of Ireland in recent years, and if he develops as expected, the Ghana-born footballer might lead the Hoops to great things in the near future.