Celtic up offer for exciting EFL star

Charlton Athletic have rejected a second bi from Glasgow giants Celtic for Alfie Doughty, as reported by the Glasgow Evening Times.

The 20-year-old is the latest exciting product to roll of the Addicks production line, following in the footsteps of the likes of Karlan Grant, and Joe Aribo who joined Celtic’s rivals, Rangers.

Doughty break into Charlton Athletic’s senior side last season, taking advantage of a dire injury situation to successfully stake a claim ni their senior setup. He has appeared in 34 times across all competitions for the Lee Bowyer’s side, scoring three goals and providing three assists.

That has attracted Celtic and Championship side Luton Town, but neither looks willing to match Charlton’s valuation currently. The initial bid of £400,000 was rejected offhand, but a new and improved £650,000 was tabled with a view to securing his services. despite the uncertainty over ownership at Charlton, that too has been dismissed, with some supporters calling the offer ‘ridiculous’.

Charlton are in a precarious position with Doughty, whose contract at The Valley expires in June 2021. Neil Lennon’s Hoops could potentially offer him a pre-contract in January and secure his services for a tribunal-set fee next season.

Addicks fans will be hoping the proposed takeover by businessman Thomas Sandgaard will be completed, regardless of the latest court hearing involving the club’s ownership on Thursday, allowing them to mount a promotion challenge and hold on to their rising star.

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Our View

Charlton fans have suffered for long enough with their rotten ownership model, but on the field, the side continues to do their supporters proud. They were bravely relegated last season, and one might argue had the EFL been stricter with punishment for Sheffield Wednesday, they would still be a Championship side.

Would that status help them keep doughty? Maybe, maybe not. There is little doubt they value their asset highly, but much will ride on the outcome of the potential takeover. If that falls through, they might not have a choice but to sell off the crown jewels, which would be a huge disservice to their great supporters and the talented manager they have in the dugout.