Brendan Rodgers willing to be patient in Celtic’s pursuit of Adam Idah

Brendan Rodgers is hoping to land Adam Idah's signature.

Republic of Ireland striker Adam Idah made himself quite a fan favourite for Celtic during his short loan spell there last season.

The Corkman signed on loan from Norwich last January and made a big impression with crucial goals such as his Scottish Cup-clincher against arch-rivals Rangers.

Idah has been at Norwich since he made the move from Ireland as a young teenager, but the taste for goals and game time he developed at Celtic Park looks to have motivated him to make a permanent move away from Carrow Road this summer.

And, although Celtic reportedly had an initial £4 million bid rejected, they now look ready to make his wish happen.

Asked by the media whether Celtic are in negotiations with Norwich over the signing of Idah, manager Brendan Rodgers said: "Adam’s a Norwich player, so I’m not in the mood to be talking about other players at other clubs."

However, he went on to add that he rates the Irishman highly.

“But he’s a player that came in here, did exceptionally well, and we’ll see what happens.”

“We could have had nine players in by now if we wanted, but it’s all about the right players that we want,” added Rodgers when pressed further about Celtic's transfer dealings.

Former Norwich and Celtic striker Chris Sutton was one of the biggest critics of Celtic's loan signing of Idah back in January, but Idah proved such a success that Sutton now thinks the Celts must get a deal done.

“In all honesty, it would be daft of Norwich not to push up their demands because they are aware that Celtic are getting a proven performer into their ranks," he said.

"So, as with most deals, both parties are going to have to give a little to get it over the line.

“But the facts are it has to be done. When Rodgers comes out immediately after the Scottish Cup Final and says he wants it done for the next season, the onus is on the board to do it."

“Celtic may have to shell out a little more than they would like to get it over the line, but Idah is no project now.

"He’s shown he’s the real deal and that’s why, even if they have to go a little further in the spend, it’s a deal that has to be concluded.”

Meanwhile, Idah's international teammate Liam Scales says he would love to see the striker back at Celtic Park.

"Adam was massive for us, scored huge goals and put in some big performances," explained the centre-back.

“We would love to have him back but it is out of our control.”