Charlton starlet set to cause Premier League and SPFL battle

Charlton Athletic star Patrick Casey has reportedly caught the attention of both Brighton and Celtic following his League One debut last month. Sources have told Football Insider that Robert de Zerbi and Brendan Rodgers could be set for a summer transfer battle following Casey's first-team debut in Charlton's clash against Oxford.

The young Irishman scored 42 goals for the club's U18 and U21 squads last season and has scored 31 goals across all competitions so far in this year's 2023/24 campaign.

Sources have also suggested that Brighton and Celtic are not the only two sides scouting the goal-scoring star with the Belgian duo of Royale Union Saint-Gilloise and Club Brugge both eyeing up the EFL starlet.

The 18-year-old has not only caused transfer chaos but is also set to cause an international rift with Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and England all keen to secure his services on the world stage. Casey was named in the Republic of Ireland's U-19 squad for a summer training camp in June 2023, but could still switch allegiance if he wishes to play under Gareth Southgate going forward.

After coming up through the ranks with the south London side, Casey penned a three-year deal with The Valley in 2023.

Premier League side Brighton have built a reputation in recent years for developing up-and-coming talent with the likes of Casey's countryman Evan Ferguson rising to fame for his goal-scoring prowess in recent months. The side has also become a hugely desirable destination with the likes of Alexis MacAllister and Moises Caicedo both hugely benefitting from their moves on the south coast of England.

Celtic, meanwhile, have struggled to keep hold of their best academy talents with Brexit impacting the signing of stars under 18 years of age from across the continent. Rodgers' side is now eyeing up a raid of Charlton's academy and the promise of silverware could be exceptionally tempting for the 18-year-old forward Casey.

The Hoops were recently knocked off the top spot of the Scottish Premiership following their 1-1 draw with Kilmarnock at Celtic Park. Brighton, meanwhile, sit seventh in the Premier League and have reached the Europa League last 16 where they will face Roma.

Charlton's next fixture comes on Saturday 24 February as they welcome League One leaders Portsmouth to the Valley for 3pm kick-off.