Mateusz Bogusz to Celtic transfer latest as clear LA stance emerges plus updates on O'Riley and Kyogo
Celtic have been warned they’ll need to go big to bag Los Angeles FC ace Mateusz Bogusz.
The Hoops have kicked off talks to land the highly-rated Polish attacker but Record Sport understands the Scottish champs are currently well short of the MLS outfit’s valuation. Bogusz notched a stunner in LA’s League Cup semi-final win against Colorado Rapids on Wednesday and won’t be sold before Sunday’s Final against Columbus Crew. The former Leeds United youngster has hit the target 17 times this season and is viewed as a major asset.
LAFC – who have former Celtic talent spotter Neil McGuinness on board as technical director – won’t entertain any move until after Sunday’s Final – and they won’t allow the Polish attacker to go on the cheap. Celtic are understood to be preparing an £8m bid – but they could be forced to go higher with the Americans in no rush to sell.
USA legend Brad Friedel insists Bogusz is one of the most technically gifted and adaptable players in the MLS. Former Liverpool, Spurs, Aston Villa and Blackburn keeper Friedel, who went on to become a manager with New England Revolution, pinpointed Bogusz as a player who caught his eye due to his impressive displays for his club.
He said: “Mateusz is highly regarded in the US. Los Angeles FC have used him wisely because when he first arrived he did not play all the time and was called up sparingly from the bench. But now he is a very important part of the team and the manager Steve Cherundolo has been very clever with his development.
“He is very well trained technically. He can also make a strong tackle when necessary. But what impresses me most is how he can find his way in any system that the manager imposes. I’m also curious about how his career will develop