QPR, Portsmouth, and Derby County are all sprinting to sign a player currently with Celtic.

Bosun Lawal has stood out as a bright spot for Fleetwood during a disappointing season, which saw the Cod Army relegated from League One after a nine-year stint in the third tier of English football.

As Lawal’s return to his parent club Celtic approaches, there is expected to be significant interest in the versatile young player this summer. Alan Nixon of The Sun reports that Marti Cifuentes’ QPR is currently at the forefront of the race to sign the Republic of Ireland under-21 international, although promoted teams Portsmouth and Derby are also interested in acquiring his services.

Bosun Lawal’s Fleetwood Town season in numbers

The Highbury Stadium has seen a turbulent season with four different managers coming and going, and now Charlie Adam is tasked with guiding the Lancashire outfit back to League One in the 2024-25 season.

Amidst all this turmoil, one player who has stood out is Lawal. Despite the challenges, he has showcased impressive skills.

Having joined Celtic from Watford in 2021, fans have high expectations for Lawal’s future contributions to the team. His time on the Fylde coast has been particularly beneficial for his development, as he’s played in various positions including right-back, centre-back, and central midfield – the latter being where he has consistently featured under Adam.

Throughout the league campaign, Lawal has accumulated 3,544 minutes across 42 matches. Notably, he has demonstrated not just aerial prowess but also a knack for scoring crucial goals, finding the net six times despite primarily being a defensive-minded player.

Playing predominantly in midfield during the latter part of the season, Lawal has shown impressive stats, ranking in the top 15% of League One players for duels won and aerial battles won, according to FotMob. Additionally, his dribbling skills and accurate long passing abilities place him in the top 25% among midfielders.

Aside from his statistical prowess, Lawal has received extensive praise from his current manager, Charlie Adam. Adam recently commented, “His ball control, dribbling, and passing abilities are exceptional. There are very few midfielders in the Championship, let alone League One, who can match his skillset.”

QPR, Portsmouth and Derby County all keen on Celtic’s Bosun Lawal

After securing their place in the 2024/25 Championship with a convincing 4-0 win against Leeds United, QPR can now focus on planning for the upcoming season.

Given Lawal’s impressive statistics and widespread acclaim, it’s no wonder that Cifuentes’ side is eager to bring him to Loftus Road. While Celtic sees a bright future for the 20-year-old, a loan move is likely to be the most probable outcome next summer.

However, QPR fans may have concerns about the recently promoted Portsmouth and Derby, both of whom are also interested in the midfielder. As they aim to solidify their positions in the Championship, Lawal could be a significant signing for either team.

Kemar Roofe’s potential move to Southampton and QPR this summer has been rumored. For Lawal and his parent club, it’s likely that more teams will express interest, giving the youngster a chance to choose where he wants to go.

QPR seems to be the most eager suitor at the moment. Spending a year alongside either Sam Field in midfield or Steve Cook in central defense could offer Lawal, who is versatile, valuable experience.

Celtic will expect Lawal to shine wherever he lands, confirming his status as a rising star for them.