Celtic must rue not signing Lys Mousset after summer interest

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With 12 wins, 44 goals scored and just eight conceded in 14 Scottish Premiership games, it seems unlikely that Neil Lennon will have many complaints about Celtic’s summer transfer window.

The Hoops are top of the table. They have booked their place in the knockout stages of the Europa League. And of course, they could win the first domestic trophy of the season this weekend when they contest the Scottish League Cup final.

It is shaping up to be another fantastic season for the Bhoys. And yet, they would still be forgiven for watching one Premier League striker and ruing not getting a deal done when they seemingly had a chance in the summer.

The Daily Mail (16/5; page 56) reported towards the end of last season that Celtic were keen on £10 million-rated Bournemouth striker Lys Mousset.

Given Mousset’s record at the Vitality Stadium, it was no surprise that the Hoops seemingly did not make a bid. The Frenchman had scored three goals in 58 Premier League games for the Cherries.

Many would have been forgiven for scratching their heads when Sheffield United decided to meet Bournemouth’s asking price.

But any confusion over the Blades’ decision has already disappeared. Mousset has been a revelation, and his recent form has been sensational.

The 23-year-old has scored five goals in the league for Chris Wilder’s men. In his last five games, he has scored four goals and provided three assists.

No player in Sheffield United’s squad has scored more or provided more assists so far this season.

Celtic have not exactly suffered because they did not land Mousset. Odsonne Edouard has 10 league goals, while Ryan Christie and James Forrest have 15 between them.

But the Hoops do not have a big group of strikers. And Mousset’s time would have come had he gone to Parkhead.

Sheffield United will soon be in a position to make a huge profit on Mousset if his current form continues. Celtic are flying. But those who wanted Mousset signed in the summer would still be forgiven for being slightly envious.