Celtic are in a relatively good frame of mind heading into the return of Scottish Premiership action this weekend following five straight victories in all competitions.
Livingston, Dundee, Rangers, St Mirren and Buckie Thistle have all came off second best against Brendan Rodgers’ side and momentum is growing at Parkhead ahead of Ross County’s on Saturday.
Nevertheless, there isn’t a lot of fresh developments to report on the transfer front, with Nicolas Kuhn the only new arrival at the club this month.
Like many sides in January, retaining key assets has also become a prominent line of thinking for Celtic in the final stages of the window.
Despite speculation, Rodgers has recently fired back at reports linking the Denmark international with a move elsewhere, stating [BBC Sport]: The club is in a really strong position with no need to sell and no thoughts of selling.
The Irishman has also indicated that he would like to keep hold of Cameron Carter-Vickers amid interest from Premier League trio West Ham United, Brentford and Nottingham Forest.
Anthony Joseph issues Celtic update on Rocco Vata contract talks
Another player who has been at the centre of discussion this month is Celtic rising star Rocco Vata amid his uncertain contractual situation.
As it stands, The Republic of Ireland Under-21 international is free to negotiate a pre-contract with foreign clubs as his deal enters its final stretch.
Bologna and Como have both expressed a desire to offer the 18-year-old an alternative career development path.
According to The Daily Record, Sampdoria are also believed to be keen on the youngster, who could become the latest casualty from the Hoops’ academy set-up.
Despite this, Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph has now taken to social media platform X to report that talks over renewing his stay in Glasgow have commenced and Vata is ‘keen on staying’ if a pathway to first-team football arises.
Contract renewals have been common place at Celtic this term
Celtic have made a habit of renewing contracts involving key assets this season, with the likes of Kyogo Furuhashi, Matt O’Riley, Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda all committing to fresh terms at Parkhead.
Liam Scales could well be the next in line to receive an improved deal as a byproduct of his consistent form in 2023/24.
Protecting players’ value, tying down important first-team men also helps to provide a sense of continuity at the club in the hunt for silverware.
Vata has become a hot topic following his maiden goal against Buckie Thistle and it is encouraging that Rodgers and company want to secure his long-term future in Glasgow.
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