Charlie Smith 
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Charlton Athletic owner Thomas Sandgaard has confirmed Celtic are ‘very interested’ in versatile ace Alfie Doughty ahead of the January transfer window.
The Hoops have been heavily linked with the youngster in recent months and are reportedly hoping to strike a pre-contract agreement with the player in the New Year.
Doughty, who can play at left-back and left-midfield, is currently out with a hamstring injury and could be sidelined until the end of the winter window.
He’s been the Addicks’ best outfield performer at The Valley this season with a WhoScored average of 7.15.
Talking to London News Online, owner Sandgaard revealed that the club are talking with Doughty’s representatives, confirming the Hoops’ interest in the 20-year-old in the process.
Yeah, we’re talking to Alfie and his agent.
He’s currently injured – as we all know – but has certainly made a name for himself.
Celtic in Scotland and other clubs are very interested in him.
His pace is really something to take notice of and can be a huge asset for any club.
Read Celtic verdict
If Celtic manage to get their man in Doughty, we feel that it could spell trouble for current left-back Greg Taylor.
Summer signing Diego Laxalt has been first-choice since joining on loan, with recent reports claiming the Uruguayan’s stay at Parkhead may not be temporary as first thought.
So, should Doughty and Laxalt be at the club for the start of the 2021/22 campaign, that may not leave much room for Taylor, who only joined the club from Kilmarnock in 2019.
He’s made 30 appearances for the Hoops and has come in for heavy criticism from several Celtic supporters this season.
Neil Lennon clearly doesn’t see Taylor as first-choice, and if the club manage to secure the permanent services of two left-backs, he may well end up searching for a new side.
