Brian McClair thinks Celtic should look at signing Scotland international this summer

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Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers is leaving no stone unturned in his quest for new arrivals at the club before the end of the window.

Adam Idah is on the cusp of returning to Celtic Park after the Bhoys agreed a deal worth £8.5 million up-front for the Republic of Ireland international. An additional £1 million has been inserted in add-ons, while Norwich City also have a 15% sell-on clause.

In among transfer chatter, free agent Renato Tapia has been linked with Celtic as Fluminese and Union Berlin look to capitalise on his lucrative status.

Despite primarily operating in defensive midfield, the 29-year-old can also deputise at centre-back, which is another area of concern for Brendan Rodgers.

The Irishman is said to be mulling over his rearguard and could look to add a body if one of Maik Nawrocki, Yuki Kobayashi or Gustaf Lagerbielke depart — the trio could be available before the deadline.

If that happens, Brian McClair has an idea of a Scotland international who Celtic could have in mind as a potential target.

Brian McClair recommends Ryan Porteous to Celtic

Speaking to Football Scotland, McClair has signalled that Celtic should try to target Ryan Porteous from Watford to bolster their defensive options.

He stated: “I think they could do with a left-back to give more competition and also to allow players to get a rest. You want to play all the time, but it’s nice every now and again to have a week off and let someone else play. I think they could do with a centre-half to push Scales and Carter-Vickers.

“Someone who I’ve liked but I don’t really know as a person, is Porteous who left Hibs for Watford. I know he didn’t have a great Euros, but he’s the type of player who I’ve seen who I thought could potentially be of interest to Celtic and someone who I think could push those players for a start.

“He might be more of a CCV type of player than a Liam Scales type of player.”

Ryan Porteous would be an expensive addition

In truth, despite his status as a Scotland international, it feels like the notion of Porteous one day coming to Celtic may have come and gone.

He was available on a pre-contract at the start of 2023 before moving to Vicarage Road, which would’ve been the time to strike for his signature.

Porteous has done himself no harm by moving south of the border. Escaping the Scottish football goldfish bowl, he has nailed down a place in the national team and made 58 appearances for Watford, scoring five goals.

Now, he would likely cost a considerable amount to bring to Parkhead, one that Celtic probably wouldn’t be willing to fork out despite his homegrown status.