TROND FREDRIKSEN, the Aalesund boss, admitted it would be “stupid” to believe striker Leke James will remain at the Norwegian club.
The Nigerian frontman has admitted Celtic have been scouting him in recent weeks and expects them to make a move in the January transfer window.
Ronny Deila is aware of the ability of the 22-year-old attacker who has scored 37 goals in 89 games for Aalesund.
Fredriksen wants to keep his star performer, but a deal to sell him will free funds to help him bolster the side elsewhere.
He said: “If we get a good price for Leke, I think the team will emerge stronger from it.
“It would give us opportunities to use someone else in that position and strengthen us elsewhere. It may also give us the chance to develop other squad members.
“I wish, of course, that he will remain for many years, but we would be stupid if we think he will stay for a long time.
“So, we have a good plan. We are preparing for the day when he can leave and we trying to get a list of players who may be able to replace him.
“It’s not easy to get a striker of his calibre.”
