Wanyama will not join Southampton

Celtic star Victor Wanyama is not in talks with Southampton over a possible move to the Premier League, his agent has insisted.

The Kenyan midfielder was hugely impressive as the Glasgow outfit cruised to the Scottish Premier League title and also reached the knock-out phase of the UEFA Champions League, after a memorable win over Spanish giants Barcelona at Parkhead.

A £12 million deal between the clubs was widely reported to have been agreed, but Wanyama’s representative, Ivan Dodig, has revealed the Premier League club’s offer was not acceptable and that his client will not be forced out, regardless of the fee paid to the Glasgow club.

“We are not in talks with Southampton and have not been since their final offer of terms, which was more than two weeks ago,” Modia told Sky Sports.

“To suggest we are talking with Southampton is totally false; their offer was way below Victor’s expectations. There is no chance of him signing the deal on offer and, in fact, both Celtic and Southampton were informed of this some time ago.

“The player will not be forced into a corner to accept the Southampton deal, just because it is good for Celtic. Remember, he has been with the club for two years now – without a pay rise – and has given them wonderful service ever since he arrived.”

Wanyama scored six goals in 31 games in the SPL last year and has also been heavily linked with Premier League newcomers Cardiff City.

His representative did not dismiss a move to Wales.

“We know there is interest from elsewhere and Victor is obviously open to those prospects – he is currently back in Kenya and hopes that Celtic will adopt a more reasonable approach and take into account the service that he has given the club so far and the rest of these issues,” Modia added.