NEIL LENNON finally got his man when Swiss international Albian Ajeti agreed a £5million deal today.
The 23-year-old Switzerland international striker signed a four-year contract with the nine-in-a-row champions – just 13 months after the Hoops boss missed out on the hitman when he moved from Basel.
Lennon was on the hunt for the forward after he netted almost 40 goals in two years with the Swiss Super League outfit, but the Parkhead chief was too late when West Ham swooped in an £8million raid to lure Ajeti to London.
However, manager Manuel Pellegrino was sacked and replaced by Davie Moyes who was not impressed with the player after 12 games without a goal.
Lennon kept on the trail, though, and was rewarded when he landed the attacker who could now team up again with his former Basel colleague Mohaed Elyounoussi.
BHOY, OH BHOY…Albian Ajeti is delighted with his £5million move. Picture courtesy Celtic TV.
The Irishman, speaking to Celtic TV, said: “We are delighted to bring Albian to Celtic. He is a tremendous player, an international with real quality and I know he is really determined to do all he can to bring more success to our supporters.
“I have admired him for long time as he is a really intelligent footballer, well balanced and a really good finisher.
“We are so pleased to make him a Celtic player and we hope he has a long and prosperous career with us.”
Just moments after signing the deal, Ajeti said: “I played alongside Moi Elyounoussi at Basel. He’s a good boy and I’m really happy that we get the chance to play together again.
“He called me and text me a couple of times, he knew my situation and he knows me as a player. He tried to convince me to come here – but it wasn’t needed!
“On the pitch, I hope that he can assist me some goals. We played very well together during our time in Basel, we were successful together, he assisted me, I assisted him, and I’m really looking forward to playing with him again.
”I’m very happy that everything is done now and I’m really looking forward to meeting up with my new team-mates. I know a lot about the club, they’re a big traditional club and I think everyone knows Celtic.”
He added: “I’m looking forward to playing in front of the Celtic fans, this was one of the main reasons I came here. I think Celtic fits perfectly for me as a striker, so I’m really looking forward to making the fans happy.
“I’m really looking forward to joining up with the team and helping them reach our goals. I want to be successful, I hope to improve myself and the team, as well.
“The manager’s encouragement was also a big part of me coming here. As a football player, especially as a striker, you need confidence. I was happy that the gaffer called me, he made it easier for me to come and sign for Celtic.”
