Ralph Hasenhuttl could recall Celtic star Mohamed Elyounoussi to Southampton next year

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Celtic could face a battle if they wish to keep Mohamed Elyounoussi beyond this season, with Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl admitting he is keeping a close watch on the attacker.

The Bhoys ace has been in fine form for Neil Lennon’s side this season, scoring six times, including a brace against Lille this week in Europe.

Elyounoussi is due to spend the rest of the season with Celtic in what is his second spell with the club. However, speaking ahead of this weekend’s Premier League fixtures, Saints boss Hassenhuttl admits the 26-year-old could force his way back in at St Mary’s.

“I am very deeply invested in what my loan players do and I am very happy for [Elyounoussi] that he scored and I am happy to see it,” Hassenhuttl said.  (Hampshire Live)

“And, definitely, the player has a chance to maybe come back in and to be a part of the team, maybe next year.”

Hassenhuttl’s comments will come as a bit of an alarm to Celtic fans who might have been hoping to see Elyounoussi become a permanent fixture at Parkhead in the future.

The Bhoys are currently lagging behind rivals Rangers this season as they hunt a tenth straight title. Elyounoussi, then, will be key if the Bhoys are to fight back and claw Steven Gerrard’s men back.

Door open but a lot can change – TBR View

Celtic fans shouldn’t take this as the door being closed to a permanent deal for Elyounoussi. A lot can change in football in a short space of time and Southampton will no doubt delve into the market further in the coming months.

But, if the 26-year-old does carry on as he is, there’s definitely a chance he could make a push for the Saints. On current form, there’s no reason at all why he can’t be a success in the Premier League.