Sunderland ‘to step in’ for Jocelin Ta Bi after Celtic deal collapses | OneFootball

Sunderland are closing in on a move for Ivorian winger Jocelin Ta Bi after Celtic’s proposed switch fell apart late on. Foot Mercato reports the Black Cats are in a strong position to sign the 20-year-old, having been impressed by his profile.

Ta Bi is on loan at Hapoel Petah Tikva from Maccabi Netanya and has two goals and two assists in 12 top-flight appearances this season.

He helped Hapoel win promotion last term and usually plays from the right, drawing praise for his dribbling and left foot.

Celtic had appeared close earlier this month, with medical staff travelling to Israel, but talks over a £two point six million deal unravelled at the last moment.

“Playing for a club like Celtic is a dream come true for me,” he said, in comments reported by the Daily Record. He also thanked Hapoel Petah Tikva for their support during his loan.

Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris said last week there was nothing imminent, adding that the window is unpredictable and the squad remains in a good place. He stressed there would not be a massive window, but the club would try to reinforce if the right opportunity arose.

Source: Sunderland Echo