KRISTOFFER AJER has revealed what we have all known for some considerable time – he will be leaving Celtic in the summer.
CQN reported in March that his new Norwegian manager Staale Solbakken had advised him to get out of Scotland to boost his international career.
It comes as no surprise the 23-year-old utility defender will follow that guidance and end his five-year stay at Parkhead.
The skyscraper centre-back, speaking to the media in his homeland, said: “With one year left of my contract, that would be the best solution for me and my club. Something is going to happen this summer.
“There are, of course, many rumours. Right now, it’s just rumours. I have one year left and will be loyal to the club. For both me and Celtic to get the best possible starting point, it probably makes sense that it happens this year.
GLORY GOAL…Kristoffer Ajer hammers the ball past Craig Gordon for the strike that sealed the phenomenal quadruple treble.
“I have brought with me experience from almost 180 games for a top club like Celtic. I have won lots of trophies and experienced how football can be for better or worse.
“It’s an insanely big club. You have to be a little careful with what you say to the media. ”
Ajer, preparing for his country’s clash with Greece on Sunday, will be aware Newcastle United and newly-promoted Norwich City are among the suitors who will pursue his signature throughout the summer.
Bundesliga giants Bayer Leverkusen, who splashed £11.8million on Jeremie Frimpong in January, have also been monitoring his situation, as CQN reported.
Ajer’s transfer value has taken a hit since the Hoops hierarchy repelled all interest in him a year ago while they prepared for the quest of a historic tenth successive title which, unfortunately, failed to materialise.
ANGUISH…Kristoffer Ajer’s mood reflects Celtic’s disappointing campaign.
AC Milan had been mentioned a fee of around the £20million mark had been reported, but, with only 12 months to run on his terms, the club may be forced to accept half of that proposed fee.
Ajer was signed by fellow-countryman Ronny Deila from FK Start on a four-year deal at a bargain £650,000 and the Norwegian outfit inserted a sell-on clause in the deal.
He had a loan spell at Kilmarnock and won nine major honours, including his part in the quadruple treble where he lashed home the decisive penalty-kick in the Scottish Cup Fina shoot-out success at Hampden on December 20 last year.
