SHEIKH JASSIM SUBMIT A MILLION EURO BID FOR CELTIC STAR, SENDING SHOCKWAVES THROUGH SCOTTISH FOOTBALL WORLD – NO ONE SAW IT COMING

In a development that has stunned the Scottish football community, Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Qatari billionaire linked with various high-profile investments in European football, has reportedly submitted a multi-million euro offer for Celtic forward Adam Idah. The move, completely unexpected by fans and pundits alike, has sent shockwaves across Scotland and beyond.

Adam Idah, the Republic of Ireland international, enjoyed a breakout season with Celtic, impressing fans and critics with his powerful performances, clinical finishing, and ability to rise to the occasion in key matches.

His performances not only reignited his international career but also caught the attention of top European and Middle Eastern clubs. Still, no one expected a move of this magnitude especially not from the Gulf.

Sheikh Jassim, who made headlines last year with an attempted takeover of Manchester United and more recently with a bid for Inter Milan, has now shifted his attention to securing young, dynamic talent for his footballing projects. According to close sources, the bid for Idah is valued at €20 million, a record-breaking fee for a player coming directly from the Scottish Premiership to a Gulf-based club.

The target destination is believed to be a top club in the Saudi Pro League, where Sheikh Jassim is reportedly building a new footballing powerhouse, rivaling the recent projects spearheaded by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia.

Celtic management and supporters alike have been left stunned by the sudden bid. Although Celtic had been working behind the scenes to make Idah’s loan deal permanent, this new offer could dramatically alter their plans.

Club insiders say Celtic had no intention of entertaining offers for Idah before resolving talks with Norwich City. However, the financial scale of Sheikh Jassim’s proposal could tempt both Norwich and Celtic to reconsider their positions.

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers, who publicly praised Idah for his maturity and adaptability, may now face an uphill battle to keep the forward in Glasgow. Reports suggest Rodgers is already in contact with the board to push for a counter-offer, but the financial muscle of Sheikh Jassim’s operation may prove too powerful to resist.

This bid is more than just a transfer story it could be a watershed moment for Scottish football. Rarely has a player from the SPFL attracted such high-level attention or commanded such a transfer fee from outside Europe’s top five leagues. It suggests a growing recognition of the league’s ability to develop and showcase talent, while also highlighting the increasing influence of Gulf investors on the global transfer market.

Sheikh Jassim’s move into player recruitment especially from less commercially dominant leagues signals a shift in strategy from simply buying clubs to building them with smart, targeted acquisitions.

As for Idah himself, sources close to the player indicate he is flattered by the attention but is prioritizing regular football and international development. The striker is said to be keen on staying at Celtic, where he feels valued and has strong chemistry with the squad. However, a lucrative long-term contract from Saudi Arabia may present an irresistible financial opportunity for the 23-year-old.

Negotiations between the involved parties are expected to intensify in the coming days. Celtic will likely attempt to either seal a permanent deal with Norwich City quickly or renegotiate with them to block external bids. Sheikh Jassim’s camp, meanwhile, remains firm on their valuation and reportedly views Idah as a key figure in their Middle East football project.