Sheffield United youngster David Parkhouse has explained why he rejected the offer of a new contract at the club.
Parkhouse’s current deal at Bramall Lane expires in the summer, with the Blades offering to extend that by a further year.
Yet the 20-year-old turned it down and is now looking to seal a permanent move away from United during the January transfer window.
The Derry Journal reports Celtic have made contact with his agent. They could agree a pre-contract with Parkhouse now he has entered the final six months of his current deal.
Blackburn Rovers and Everton have also shown interest.
Why David Parkhouse rejected a new contract
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Parkhouse has enjoyed a successful 2019. The Northern Ireland international top scored for Derry City with 19 goals during a 12-month loan with the League of Ireland side. It earned him a place in the division’s team of the year.
Clearly the Blades were keen to keep the forward on their books and develop him further. But Parkhouse isn’t prepared to wait any longer for first team football.
“I haven’t turned it down out of disrespect to Sheffield United. But you have to sit down and look at where your future is going to lie,” the striker said.
“I’ve been up with the first team since I’ve been back, I’ve been training and done well. But I have to assess whether there will be a breakthrough for me in the team at some point.
“Looking at it now, there’s not really going to be that opportunity. I know injuries can sometimes give you a chance but you can’t sit back and bank on injuries happening.
“I’m by no means being cocky or thinking I’m bigger than Sheffield United, because I know I’m not. But I know my worth as well. I know where I want to be at this moment in time. And what I’ve been offered just isn’t for me at the minute.”