Celtic instantly knocked back in approach for new striker thanks to Rangers
49ers Enterprises’ ties to Rangers are paying off in more ways than one in the winter transfer window.
Rangers have already made two permanent signings this month, while Andreas Skov Olsen has arrived at Ibrox on an initial loan deal.
The 49ers have been backed to bring in more players for Danny Rohl before the transfer window shuts for business on 2 February.
Scottish Premiership title rivals Celtic are themselves desperately trying to bring in some new recruits, meanwhile, but they have just been knocked back in their pursuit of one target – all thanks to the 49ers.
Rangers ties see Celtic miss out on Joel Piroe transfer
Celtic were last week linked with a move for Leeds United striker Joel Piroe, who has fallen out of favour at Elland Road.
The 49ers are involved with both Rangers and Leeds, meaning talk of Piroe potentially joining Celtic raised some eyebrows.
However, it appears there was never any chance of that deal going through.
As reported by Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph via X on Monday, Leeds were “surprised” by Celtic’s approach due to their connection to Rangers.
It is said that, because of the 49ers’ ownership of Rangers and Leeds, the deal was a “non-starter” for the Americans.
That will be music to the ears of Rangers fans, as Piroe would have undoubtedly been a great option for Celtic.
Could Piroe to Rangers now be a possibility?
Piroe has been touted as a target for Rangers previously, owing to those links between the Gers and Leeds.
The Dutchman may well be looking to get out of Elland Road this month in order to play more regular football.
Rangers would no doubt love him, but talk of a loan exit has already been ruled out. Still, thanks to the 49ers’ sway, surely that stance can be relaxed?
Should the Gers land Piroe for the next four months, they will have a player who last season netted 19 goals in the English Championship, and a player eager to prove a point.
He could then return to Leeds in the summer in a position to properly challenge for a regular starting spot.
On the face of it, this seems like a no-brainer now that a move to Celtic has been completely ruled out.
Stay up to date this winter with our Rangers transfer tracker. Click to see every done deal at Ibrox, plus expert reaction from our team of writers.