Reports in Scotland are linking Celtic with a January move for AZ Alkmaar midfielder Markus Henriksen.
- By Michael Bell
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Henriksen signed for AZ Alkmaar in the summer of 2012 from Rosenborg, and came with a high reputation as one of the brightest talents in Norway.
The midfielder made over 30 appearances in his first year with the club, helping them win the KNVB Cup in an impressive campaign.
However so far this season, Henriksen has been in and out of the AZ starting line up, as new coach Dick Advocaat appears to prefer Celso Ortiz in the defensive midfield role.. In November Henriksen spoke of his frustration at his reserve role, and stated he would leave in January if matters didn’t change as he felt he is “too good for the bench”.
Since then Henriksen has worked his way back into the team, playing a more advanced role, and has so far made 21 appearances in all competitions this season.
Celtic coach Neil Lennon was present at AZ’s KNVB Cup game with Heerenveen last week, and according to the Scottish Sun, Henriksen was one of the players he wanted to watch.
However the Norwegian international never left the bench in the 2-2 draw, but Lennon was able to cast his eye over other reported targets Alfred Finnbogason and Aron Johannsson.
Henriksen cost the club £1.75 million when he signed, and although Dick Advocaat may be looking to cash in on some players to revamp his squad, they are unlikely to let go of the young talent for cheap.