Bolton Wanderers Ireland youth international Luce Connell has signed for SPFL giants Celtic on a four-year deal.
The 18-year-old becomes the second signing of the summer at Parkhead, following the arrival of French defender Christopher Jullien from Toulouse.
Connell broke into Bolton’s first team in January and has become hot property ever since, with links to Leeds United and a host of other sides. Bolton’s cash woes have made a move easy for potential suitors and he’s chosen Celtic for the next stage of his development.
The left-footed midfielder leaves Bolton as administrators attempt to deliver a takeover amidst the chaos of last seasons relegation and financial agony.
He’s free of that burden now and, as he told Celtic TV, he’s delighted to have made the move.
“It’s unbelievable to sign for such a massive club, known all around the world,” he said.
“It’s a dream come true, it’s what you dream of when you’re a little boy. A few weeks ago I heard that Celtic were interested and that’s something you can’t take for granted.
“I’m just grateful now that it’s all done, the pen’s been put to paper, so I’m made up.”
The Liverpool-born 18-year-old made 10 Championship appearances, as well as two FA Cup outings. One of those, a 5-2 win against Walsall, was his full competitive debut.
Our View
The Bolton woes continue, although losing Connell isn’t going to be felt on the field. He only broke through in the middle of the season and wasn’t able to keep them in the Championship.
What will hurt is losing him on the cheap, so to speak. Celtic have paid a little over the odds for him, but that’s nothing compared to what they might have been able to press for, had he not been at such a cash-strapped club.
Sure, it’s a blow for the Trotters, but when you consider what they’ve been through of late, it’s not the worst thing to happen to them.
Bolton have “cash woes” but Celtic gave them more than they had to for the young lad. A touch of class from Celtic. Hope Bolton can recover. Hail Hail.