Celtic fans could be in for a major transfer twist as reports emerge that Brendan Rodgers has initiated talks over a potential return for former Hoops striker Odsonne Édouard. The French forward, who left Celtic for Crystal Palace in 2021, has had an up-and-down spell in the Premier League, and a move back to Glasgow could be on the cards.
Rodgers, who previously managed Édouard during his first spell at Celtic, is believed to be keen on bolstering his attacking options ahead of the summer transfer window. With question marks over the futures of Kyogo Furuhashi and Oh Hyeon-gyu, the Hoops boss is eager to bring in a proven goal scorer who understands the demands of playing for the club.
Since returning to Celtic, Rodgers has spoken openly about the need to reinforce his squad with players who have the right mentality and experience to handle the pressure of playing for the Scottish champions. Édouard, who scored 87 goals in 179 appearances for Celtic, certainly fits that profile.
His time in Glasgow was filled with success, including multiple league titles, domestic cups, and memorable performances in European competition. Rodgers played a key role in developing Édouard’s game, and there is a belief that the striker could rediscover his best form under the Northern Irishman’s guidance.
A move back to Scotland would also allow Édouard to enjoy regular game time, something he has struggled with at Crystal Palace. While he has shown flashes of brilliance in the Premier League, he has often found himself on the fringes of the squad, with Palace regularly changing managers and tactics.
This season, Celtic have struggled at times with inconsistency in front of goal. While Kyogo has continued to find the net, his form has dipped in crucial moments, and Oh has yet to establish himself as a reliable alternative. The potential departure of either striker would leave a major gap in the squad, making Édouard an ideal signing.
Furthermore, Celtic’s European ambitions require a striker with experience at the highest level. Édouard has already proven himself on the big stage, scoring against the likes of Lazio and Rangers during his first stint at Parkhead. His composure, technical ability, and finishing prowess could give Celtic a much-needed edge in the Champions League next season.
Would Édouard Be Open to a Return?
One of the biggest questions surrounding a potential deal is whether Édouard would be willing to come back to Celtic. The 26-year-old still has time on his side and may have aspirations of continuing in the Premier League or securing a move to another top European league. However, his struggles at Crystal Palace may force him to consider a fresh start, and a return to a club where he was adored by the fans could be an appealing option.
It is also worth noting that Édouard left Celtic on good terms. He has never ruled out a return, and his love for the club and its supporters remains evident. If Rodgers can convince him that Celtic’s project aligns with his ambitions, a deal could become a real possibility.
Financial Considerations and Celtic’s Transfer Strategy
While Celtic have money to spend, any move for Édouard would need to make financial sense. Palace signed him for around £14 million, and while his value has likely dropped, they may still demand a significant fee. Celtic’s board will have to weigh up the cost of the transfer against the potential benefits of bringing back a proven goal scorer.
