Stephen McGinn has lifted the lid on how Celtic’s complacency likely cost them the chance to sign John McGinn back in 2017.
Speaking on Open Goal, Stephen revealed that their family assumed the move was a formality after John had impressed for Hibs under Neil Lennon, with Celtic seemingly the only club interested.
“I remember watching the games against Celtic and thinking ‘surely they are going to take him as a no-risk.
“That was basically what we thought was going to happen because it was only Celtic that were in really. I think Celtic had wind of that as well.
“I remember the agents saying that if Villa get the transfer embargo sorted, then they are coming in.”
However, Celtic hesitated, refusing to meet Hibs’ asking price. Aston Villa, once their transfer embargo was resolved, swooped in, signing John McGinn swiftly while Celtic were preoccupied with a Champions League qualifier against AEK Athens.
This left Brendan Rodgers, who had reportedly met John to discuss his role at the club, frustrated as Villa sealed the deal.
John McGinn went on to captain Villa, while Celtic were left to rue their missed opportunity.