Fulham are considering tabling an offer for Celtic defender Dedryck Boyata on account of his World Cup exploits with Belgium, according to the Scottish Sun.
The 27 year-old defender has only a year to run on his current Celtic contract and, although Hoops boss Brendan Rodgers hasn’t conceded defeat in convincing the former Manchester City centre back to extend his deal, Boyata’s composed displays in Russia could spark a bidding war amongst some of Europe’s leading clubs for his services. The Sun report suggests that Lazio had been tracking Boyata in Russia, whilst Fulham are now mulling over whether to make an offer as they look to strengthen their defence this summer.
Celtic are reluctant to sell Boyata, who has made 92 appearances in three seasons with the Scottish giants, but could be persuaded to cash in on his excellent international form should he not be willing to sign a new contract. The 6ft 2in centre half was called into Roberto Martinez’s squad for Russia having made a real impression north of the border as an integral part of the Celtic side that stormed to three consecutive league titles.
Boyata, who came through the youth ranks at Manchester City having moved to England from Brussels back in 2006, started all three of Belgium’s group games at the World Cup. He has been attracting attention from a number of Turkish and French sides since the end of the season – and Fulham would face stiff competition for his signature. Boyata may relish the opportunity of proving himself in the Premier League, having made just twelve league appearances in four seasons at Manchester City, and the Sun suggests that the Whites would be willing to offer him a substantial wage increase.
