Sunderland in 'strong position' to sign 'explosive' attacker who watched Celtic transfer collapse this month
The attacker is said to have been closing in on a move to Celtic this January but Sunderland could now pounce.
Sunderland are claimed to be pounding on a winger deal this January - after a move to Celtic collapsed.
Jocelin Ta Bi was heavily linked with a move to Celtic this winter after impressive form in Israel at Hapoel Petah Tikva, on loan from Maccabi Netanya. He even went as far as speaking on his upcoming switch but recent claims have emerged that an issue in the medical has stopped him from making the move to Glasgow.
That does not appear to have deterred English Premier League side Sunderland, who have reportedly stolen a march on the deal ahead of the Premiership champions. It is now suggested the Black Cats are moving in on Ta Bi as an opening in the UK is claimed to be open.
Jocelin Ta Bi to Sunderland transfer rumour
A report from Foot Mercato reads: “His performances had convinced Celtic Glasgow to make a move. Everything seemed finalized: a €3 million transfer was in the works, and the Scottish medical staff had even travelled to Israel . But according to our information, the transfer unexpectedly fell through in recent hours.
“However, Ta Bi's future still appears to lie in Great Britain. The breakdown of negotiations with Celtic has benefited Sunderland , who are now in a very strong position to sign him. The Black Cats, currently 10th in the Premier League , were captivated by the Ivorian's explosive profile and seized the opportunity to make a move for the player, who was progressing very well at the Stadium of Light.”
Reporting in the Herald states on the winger’s failed Celtic move this month: “Celtic's hopes of concluding a £2million deal for Ivory Coast winger Jocelin Ta Bi have been undermined by injury. Plans to complete the deal are now under review, however, after tests showed up that the Maccabi Netanya right winger requires surgery for a medical issue.
What did Jocelin Ta Bi says about moving to Celtic?
“Regarded as a prospect for the future Celtic could return for Ta Bi in the summer but now look likely to turn their attention to other targets after the latest set back to plans to reinforce the squad this month.”
Martin O’Neill’s side take on Falkirk in their latest Premiership tussle on Wednesday night amid the January transfer rumours. Speaking on the move to Celtic, the winger said it was a dream to sign for a major club like Celtic. He said prior to its collapse: “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.”