Charlton have told Celtic Alfie Doughty is not for sale – even though he is out of contract in the summer.
The League One side have kicked out a second bid for the 20-year-old from the Scottish champions believed to be around £500,000.
The Addicks are refusing to play ball over an asking price and have told the Hoops they don’t want to sell him. Celtic failed with an opening £400,000 bid and now have to consider whether they try again or wait and sign Doughty on a pre-contract.
Charlton boss Lee Bowyer has urged Doughty to sign a new deal as his best opportunity for first-team football would be with his current employers.
The other issue is a complicated struggle for power at the London club and that has also impacted on any outgoings or signings.
Neil Lennon could get him for a cut-price deal cross border but if he was to remain in England then Charlton would be in line for a significant six-figure compensation package.
Doughty has played most of his football at left midfield but Celtic want him to fight it out with Greg Taylor for the left-back slot.
If they can’t get a deal over the line Celtic may need to look at a short-term loan option as cover.
