Ivorian winger Jocelin Ta Bi could still be heading to the Premier League after his proposed move to Celtic appeared close to falling through.
The Parkhead side had lined up Ta Bi as their second January addition in a £2 million transfer from Maccabi Netanya.
He has been spending the season on loan with Hapoel Petah Tikva.
However, a problem identified during his medical indicated that surgery would be required, prompting Celtic to reassess the deal.
Despite that setback, a Premier League outfit is now reportedly prepared to move for the 20-year-old.
Foot Mercato journalist Sebastien Denis wrote on social media: “Huge twist for Jocelin Ta Bi.
“Just when everything was settled with Celtic FC, the starlet isn’t expected to commit to the club.
“The winger from Hapoel Petah Tikva is set to commit in England as a Premier League club is about to swoop in and snag the deal.”
Celtic have since shifted their focus to alternative targets, but the highly regarded winger is still thought to be bound for the UK.
Sources in France suggest that an unnamed English side has stepped in to prise the Maccabi Netanya talent away from Israel and into the Premier League.
Sunderland have been mentioned as a possible landing spot for Ta Bi after the player followed the Black Cats on Instagram. It marks a dramatic turn of events after Ta Bi stated only days ago that he had agreed a “dream” move to Glasgow.
He said: “Playing for a club like Celtic is a dream come true for me. But without the support and love I received in Israel, I would not have reached these levels. The decision to come here and the trust I received from the club and my friends led me to progress.
“I will not forget the period I have had on loan at Hapoel Petah Tikva and the love and warmth that surrounded me. I am going to fulfil a big dream, at a famous club and in one of the best stadiums in the world.”
With Ta Bi’s transfer now off the table, Celtic are holding talks over a move for Uruguayan right-winger Ignacio Laquintana.
The 26-year-old is open to the switch, with the two clubs discussing a loan arrangement that could include an option to buy in the summer.
English Championship outfit Preston North End remain interested in Hyun-jun Yang, but his recent upturn in form and Martin O’Neill’s admiration for the winger mean a departure for the South Korean now looks unlikely.