Celtic face competition for Lennon Miller despite Lyon’s financial difficulties | OneFootball

Celtic are reportedly keeping close tabs on Lennon Miller over a potential summer transfer. The Scottish Champions have been impressed by the 18-year-old since his breakthrough at Motherwell.

As reported by Football Insider, Miller is attracting interest from across Europe with French side Lyon keen on making an offer for the Scottish midfielder. The report states that the Ligue 1 club are readying a £8m bid in order to beat Celtic to sign Miller.

However, Lyon are currently under a transfer ban imposed by France’s football financial watchdog, the DNCG, meaning they cannot buy new players unless they significantly improve their financial situation.

Lennon Miller of Motherwell is seen during the Scottish Premiership match between theRangers and Motherwell at Ibrox on March 01, 2025. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

The ban is part of strict measures following their rising debt, which has reportedly increased from €458 million to €508 million. If the club fail to meet financial requirements by the end of the season, they could face forced relegation to Ligue 2.

Owner John Textor is trying to fix the situation, including possibly selling his Crystal Palace stake to raise funds. But as of now, Lyon cannot sign new players unless the DNCG lifts the ban, which means that they may struggle to stump up the funds to sign Miller.

Celtic have a strong midfield at present with Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate, Arne Engels, Paulo Bernardo and Luke McCowan. Miller would likely see his initial role at the club being that of a supporting role but it is clear that he has the talent to become a real star at the club. Celtic will hope that he can develop under the tutelage of Brendan Rodgers and become one of the future stars of the club.

Celtic will have to be quick if they are to secure Lennon Miller’s signature as there will undoubtedly be a number of a clubs interested in the player, especially given his contract expires next summer.