It was reported by The Scottish Daily Express on Wednesday afternoon that ‘top target’ Souza is now ‘ready’ to move to Dutch side PSV, adding that they are ‘on course to win the race’ for the highly-courted Brazilian.
He is seen by the Hoops as the ‘ideal anchorman’ for their midfield for next term, but they have become increasingly ‘frustrated’ over the ‘lack of progress’ in talks over a potential deal.
Taking to Twitter earlier this afternoon, Joseph has now revealed that Souza is in fact ‘not close’ to joining PSV, and that the Bhoys are still an ‘option’ for him, although they ‘won’t wait for much longer’:
“The situation of in-demand Vinicius Souza hasn’t really changed. I understand he’s not close to joining PSV at this stage. Around 20 clubs have expressed interest. Player & agent want to weigh up all their options. Celtic is still an option, but club won’t wait for much longer.”
The fact that Souza is ‘not close’ to signing for PSV and that Parkhead is still a potential destination for him should be seen as promising for Celts supporters.
Dubbed ‘incredible’ at breaking up attacks by Belgian footballer Steven Defour, he won 3.8 tackles per match in Belgium last season, far more than any Celtic player managed.
The fact that Souza is a ‘top target’ will mean that Ange Postecoglou will be desperate to get a deal over the line, and this latest update from Joseph should give him hope that a move can still happen.
