Celtic linked with Palestine international striker Wessam Abou Ali

Incoming Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy is very familiar with the Danish-born striker and he brought him to his Columbus Crew side earlier this year.

Abou Ali made the switch to the MLS side from Egyptian giants Al Ahly in July for £5.7 million. His deal with the Crew runs through 2027, with an additional year available as an option.

The 48 year-old French-Canadian is advanced into negotiations with the Hoops about taking over as Brendan Rodgers’ long-term replacement.

Although discussions are progressing slowly, reports suggest Nancy could be installed at Celtic Park next week. A coach with experience in Scottish football is also expected to link up with his staff and assistant Kwame Ampadu is likewise anticipated to make the move to Glasgow. Abou Ali is another one of Nancy’s coaching staff who might accompany him to Celtic.

Nancy’s first game in charge is expected to be Dundee at Celtic Park a week on Wednesday.

Now, according to Scottish Sun, Palestinian forward Abou Ali is on the Hoops’ shortlist for the January transfer window.

The striker has three goals in five games for the Ohio club. He also produced 28 goals in 35 matches for Al Ahly and scored 10 in 16 appearances during his spell with Swedish side IK Sirius.

The 26-year-old, Danish-born forward plays internationally for Palestine, scoring four goals in his 10 caps for the national team.

Abou Ali once thought that he might be forced to quit football after he collapsed on the pitch four years ago while playing for Danish club Vendsyssel.

It now appears he may be on a long-list of targets for the Scottish champions, with incoming Celtic boss Nancy reportedly prepared to approve a move during the winter window.

Conor Spence

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