Balde returns to Celtic Park to clear up move confusion

BOBO BALDE was back at Celtic Park yesterday for a meeting with manager Gordon Strachan - and to clear up the confusion over his proposed move to Marseille.

The defender’s adviser, Mick Oliver, claimed Balde had turned down a return to France and was committed to Celtic, even though his alleged suitors were in the dark.

It also came as a shock to Strachan, who had already set in motion plans to bring in a replacement for the 29-year-old, with a package of some €40,000 per week said to be available for the right man.

Marseille, meanwhile, claim their bid to sign the Guinea international is far from over, despite confusion surrounding any proposed deal.

Oliver claims the defender remains committed to the Hoops, while the French club are adamant they are still in negotiations and hope to tie up the loose ends later today.