Premier League trio eyeing up prolific European hitman
Despite only moving to the club in 2010, Gary Hooper may already be on his way out of Celtic Park with Aston Villa, Sunderland and Fulham all showing interest in his signature.
The striker has been in inspiring form for the Hoops, scoring 37 goals in 64 appearances under Neil Lennon’s management, leading some of the Premier League to prick up their ears, especially when hearing of his £6.5m price-tag.
Some have said that the forward is enjoying his time at Celtic, and while it’s well and good to say that he is getting European football at his current club, the Premier League interest could clearly be a step up in the long run.
It’s rumoured that Hooper is missing his family below the border and would be keen on a move back to England should the right offer come in; something which is very likely to happen.
Reports have suggested that Southampton are to lodge a bid for his services but when faced with the decision of Championship or Premier League football, it’s not hard to envisage that the 23 year-old would choose the latter.
The Celtic faithful would be heartbroken to see Hooper go, especially after the striker has formed such an effective partnership with Anthony Stokes.
Whilst Sunderland are considering the forward as purely reinforcements to what they currently have at their disposal, it’s suspected that Villa and Fulham will only bid for Hooper if they sell first.
Both clubs are expecting bids for Darren Bent and Bobby Zamora respectively, and would consider a move for Hooper if either striker were to leave.
