Celtic Tipped to Sign Hearts-Bound Winger.
Islam Chesnokov has yet to arrive in the Scottish Premiership, but he is already being linked with a move to Celtic in the future, according to a familiar source in the city.
Former Rangers winger Andrei Kanchelskis believes the Kazakhstani forward’s choice to join Hearts is a wise move aimed at capturing the attention of clubs such as Celtic.
The Jambos have signed Chesnokov on a pre-contract and are presently negotiating agreements with FC Tobol to bring him in ahead of schedule. Kanchelskis now manages Dynamo Bryansk in Russia’s second tier.
He feels that, despite being a smaller league, the Scottish top flight provides players with a much better opportunity of being recognised, notably by Celtic, who he believes are currently a cut above the rest.
The ex-Russia international questioned Chesnokov’s decision to stay in his homeland, citing the lack of exposure and European football opportunities compared to the opportunities in Scotland. He stated, “The Scottish league is quite high level and there is a lot of quality there.
It’s a very physical league, but the problem is that this is only a league with two teams – Celtic and Rangers, and Celtic are leading by a wide margin. Another five or six, in
“Yes, the Russian Premier League is clearly higher than Scotland’s, but there is no Europe for him, and no one will notice him in Russia.”
“So if it was me, I would have done what Islam did and moved to Scotland too.” Hearts are apparently pushing to complete the transfer this summer in order to strengthen their attacking options for the new season.
Kanchelskis’ words are unlikely to be well received by his former club’s supporters, but his appraisal of Celtic’s standing in Scottish football is tough to dismiss. Regular Champions League participation, as well as a reputation for nurturing and selling talent, have made Parkhead a natural next step for many.
For the time being, he is still a target for Hearts, but the road he has taken has already thrown Celtic into the spotlight.
Rodgers and his recruitment team will remain focused on existing targets, but names like Chesnokov might be considered if they perform well on Scottish soil.
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