Celtic Academy talent Rocco Vata has a big decision to make this summer and it will soon be known where his future lies.
Vata made his Bhoys debut in December 2022 and has gone on to make six appearances in total for the club, but his long-term future in Glasgow has always been in doubt.
Transfer speculation around the player has created more headlines around the attacker than his performances as clubs from around Europe circle to pick up a potential bargain.
The Republic of Ireland talent’s contract at Celtic is up and he is free to sign for who he likes.
However, The Irish Daily Mirror [13/06 print edition, p 49] reports that he remains in discussions with the Scottish champions on a three-year extension.
Rudi Vata points out how much son is in demand
His father Rudi, who played for Celtic in the 1990s, also told the paper: “Rocco is a very unique boy. He has had 15 offers from 15 different clubs and he has still not decided where he wants to continue with his future.
“He is analysing his options. He was born with freedom, Rocco, and he chose to become a footballer. As his dad I only try to keep him right.
“There are no less than seven or eight Serie A clubs who have shown interest in Rocco. But he needs to keep going and keep working.”
It’s time for Rocco to commit to his future
Understandably, it would be somewhat overwhelming for the winger to field intense interest like this at such a young age. There will be good reasons why he has not yet fully committed to Celtic or any other team.
But we’re approaching the critical point and his final call must be coming soon. Given he has grown up a Bhoys supporter and his family is based in Glasgow, the Celtic option will still hold some sway.
However, that could also depend on where Brendan Rodgers sees him fitting into the first-team squad. The winger only managed two substitute appearances last term and he will likely be keen on more regular senior action.
Will that come with a commitment that he wants to develop at Celtic? That’s the question that he’ll want an answer for.