Charlton Athletic boss confirms Celtic interest in winger – and claims bid has been turned down
Lee Bowyer has confirmed Celtic’s interest in Alfie Doughty – but wants the youngster to commit to Charlton for at least one more season.
The 20-year-old is due to be out of contract next summer but the League One club would still be due compensation if he quit then as he is under the age of 24.
Doughty broke into the Addicks’ first-team fold in November after a loan spell at National League Bromley.
“We did turn down an offer from Celtic,” said Charlton manager Lee Bowyer. “And they were at the game at the weekend, from what I understand.
“But we’ve not heard anything since.
“In an ideal world, and this is just me speaking on how I would advise Alfie, it would be for him to sign another deal and do another year – do a full season with us.
“He only came into the side at a stage later in last season. He did well. He gets himself into great positions – like when he went through against AFC Wimbledon and on Saturday – but it is his end product that he has to work on.
“If he stays with us for another season he will improve more, because he has improved lots since he has been with us.
“I know what agents are like – they want to take them out. They think about what can be earned money-wise and not about the kid’s development – because he needs developing.
“So I think he should stay, sign and do a full season with us – improve more and then see what is on the table for him. Because if he goes somewhere now the likelihood is he ain’t really going to play. He isn’t going to benefit from that.
“Alfie will be different to Dillon [Phillips] because a bit like Lyle [Taylor] when he was in his last year, if we choose not to sell you then that’s our choice.”
PICTURES BY KYLE ANDREWS
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