'We'll see' - Benjamin Nygren issues cryptic response to Celtic transfer exit links ahead of World Cup debut
Attacking midfielder was replaced as a precaution after hurting his ankle in Sweden’s 2-2 draw with Greece in their final World Cup warm-up game
Benjamin Nygren is refusing to rule out the possibility of leaving Celtic this summer after addressing questions over his future in his native Sweden.
The versatile 24-year-old forward joined the Hoops in a bargain £1.3m deal from Danish outfit FC Nordsjælland last summer, and he finished an impressive debut season in Glasgow’s east end as the champions top scorer with 21 goals in 58 games across all competitions.
His blistering form has helped establish himself as a national team regular with Graham Potter’s Sweden and is now bound for the World Cup after travelling to North America with his international team mates on Saturday.
Nygren’s performances for club and country has caught the attention of several transfer suitors, with recent reports claiming he is on the radar of English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur.
And after featuring for Sweden in their final World Cup warm-up clash against Greece on Friday night, Nygren issued a coy response when quizzed by local media outlet Radiosporten, about interest in his services.
“We'll see what happens,” he replied, sparking further speculation about a potential departure from Celtic when the transfer window opens.
Nygren sparks pre-World Cup injury concern
A key part of Celtic’s Premiership and Scottish Cup double-winning side last term, Nygren is expected to be the subject of bids this summer. In addition, there were concerns about the attacker’s fitness after finding himself on the end of a heavy challenge during the 2-2 draw with the Greeks.
Nygren had to receive medical attention, but has moved to reassure fans that he will be fit and available for the Swedes’ Group F opener against Tunisia in Monterrey on Monday.
“I passed, then he came in and tackled me so I twisted my ankle,” he told Goteborgs-Posten. “It hurt rihht then and there. We were going to change anyway, so we took it safe before it was too late. I’ve sprained my foot before, so I can still feel the difference.