Grady Diangana was in senstaional form last season on loan with West Brom (Getty Images)
According to The Sun (h/t Birmingham Live), Celtic are interested in signing West Ham starlet Grady Diangana, who currently plies his trade with West Brom in the Championship.
Having risen through the ranks of West Ham’s youth academy, Diangana, 22, joined West Brom on loan last summer. The winger made 17 league appearances for the Hammers last season but could not make it to Manuel Pellegrini’s squad regularly and was sent on loan to improve with game time.
Since his arrival at the Hawthorns, Diangana has become a fan favourite and has excelled in his loan spell. He has been instrumental in the Baggies’ chase for promotion, and the report also suggests that West Brom want to sign him on a permanent basis once his loan spell ends in the summer. Thus, Celtic must make a swift move for the Englishman, who is valued at £20m by his parent club.
Neil Lennon should focus on strengthening the wide areas in his squad. At the moment, only three wingers are available at the manager’s disposal. Norway international Mohammed Elyounoussi struggled with an injury earlier in the campaign but was effective in the 10 games he featured in, scoring 4 goals and providing 2 assists.
Mikey Johnston also did a decent job in the few opportunities he received but Maryan Shved hasn’t been convincing so far. However, Elyounoussi is on loan from Southampton and the two aforementioned youngsters don’t have enough experience. Thus, the Hoops need to bring in wingers this summer to improve their squad depth.
In that regard, signing Diangana would help them secure the future of their attacking unit. The English U21 international struggled to find his form at West Ham but his loan move to West Brom has helped him return to his best. In 29 league games this season, he has scored 7 goals and 6 assists and has established himself as a key member in West Brom’s pursuit of promotion.
His inclusion would definitely add depth to Lennon’s squad, whilst also bringing in healthy competition. And he could also go on to represent the Hoops in the long run if he is able to replicate the same form.
With a lack of options in the wide areas, Celtic are in dire need of wingers. And Diangana could provide them with the quality up front. He is just 22 and has a lot of room for development. Under the guidance of Lennon, he can become a valuable player for the Scottish giants in the future. Thus, signing the West Ham graduate would be a wise decision by the club.
