Dutch Report: Celtic-linked Eredivisie winger wants to move abroad

Celtic-linked Albert Gudmundsson has told AZ Alkmaar that he wants to move abroad, according to Dutch newspaper Noordhollands Dagblad.

The Hoops were first linked with Gudmundsson last month by The Telegraph. It was stated then that the Bhoys were eyeing up a pre-contract move for the winger this summer. Celtic are currently free to speak to the player given he’s now into the final 6 months if his contract.

Gudmundsson is currently in the middle of a 6-goal season in which he’s played in all but 1 of Alkmaar’s 27 games this season [Transfermarkt]. Indeed, he featured in both matches against Celtic in the Europa League qualifiers back in August.

However, his club have warned him about not signing a new deal, with AZ director Max Huiberts hinting it will likely affect his playing time.

As quoted by Voetbal Primeur, Huiberts said: “Albert has indicated that he will not sign up for the time being.

“On the other hand, Albert knows that if we have to choose between equal players in his position, there is a chance that preference will be given to a player with a permanent contract.”

Albert Gudmundsson to Celtic? We aren’t the only ones keen

At 24 years of age, the Icelandic international certainly has plenty of experience to his name. He’s just shy of 100 games for Alkmaar and also bagged 12 during his previous spell with PSV Eindhoven. With 29 international caps to his name also, he’s very much been used to top-level football for the best part of 5 years.

Of course, with a reputation such as Gudmundsson’s, Celtic were never going to be the only ones interested in the player. Rangers were also linked by the Telegraph, and it would hardly be surprising if other clubs around Europe also batted an eye.

After all, there’s a chance to get an experienced internationalist for nothing here. And one with a decent pedigree who can play in several positions. More suited to the right-wing role, Gudmundsson can also feature as a centre-forward, something he does regularly for AZ.

Gudmundsson was a lively threat in the Europa League playoff round against Celtic. With his close control and brilliant technique, he was one of the main reasons the Dutch side were such a handful in the early stages of the tie.

As of yet, there are no reports to indicate that Celtic are advancing their interest at the moment. But it’s all lining up for Ange Postecoglou if he and the club wish to strike on it.

You certainly feel this is worth looking into more, with the player looking for fresh opportunities.

In other news, AFCON star Kundai Benyu expresses disappointment over 2020 Celtic exit