Idah’s representatives were engaged in discussions with Serie A club Verona regarding a potential loan deal that included an option to buy. However, Norwich City rejected the initial buy offer of €3.5 million. Although several Championship clubs were interested in the 22-year-old striker, Scottish Premiership champions Celtic, and former European Cup winners, emerged as the leading contenders.
The Republic of Ireland international’s desired move to Glasgow hinges on Norwich securing a replacement forward. Norwich City’s pursuit of Bologna striker Sydney Van Hooijdonk was made public on Tuesday, but he is just one name on a shortlist curated by sporting director Ben Knapper, which includes both domestic and overseas targets.
Despite Celtic being linked with Van Hooijdonk, the Daily Record asserts that there was no interest in the 23-year-old, and instead, Celtic’s manager Brendan Rodgers sanctioned a surprise move for Idah. The Cork-born attacker is seeking regular playing time, having made only 31 league starts in 99 appearances for Norwich City since his full Premier League debut in January 2020 against Manchester United.
Earlier in the January transfer window, Verona and Genoa expressed interest in Idah, but Verona made their move ahead of the FA Cup tie at Liverpool. However, negotiations hit a hurdle as Norwich City reportedly wanted a buy option in the range of €8 million to €10 million. Subsequently, Celtic entered the picture later in the day.
The current focus is on Norwich City’s efforts to reorganize their striker lineup. Reports from Spain suggest that Sporting Gijon has abandoned the pursuit of Jonathan Varane in this transfer window, but this remains secondary for Norwich, as the player is eager for a move to England. Sporting director Ben Knapper has until 11 pm on Thursday to finalize Norwich City’s transfer dealings.
Contrary to speculation linking Dimi Giannoulis with Ajax, the Greek international is expected to stay at Carrow Road in the coming days.