Celtic could be set to swoop in for American left-back Andrew Gutman, according to US media reports.
The left-back was on trial at Rangers last month, and left Glasgow without a deal on the table from Ibrox. And apparently, it could be the case that Celtic are also checking him out too.
No formal offer has been made by the club. It would, however, go with other speculated signings from the US such as Alberth Elis and Will Trapp. Rumours of a move for Elis were rubbished, but it does feel as though Celtic are looking into the American market with US star Timothy Weah joining from PSG on loan.
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Respected journalist Paul Tenorio of popular MLS website The Athletic, claims that the Hoops are interested in the defender.
Left-back has been a problem area for Celtic in recent times. Emilio Izaguirre has struggled to fit in capably in recent months, with a strong lack of consistency in his game.
Left-back remains a slight problem area
It’s a problem area that also forced Brendan Rodgers to move Callum McGregor – his most creative midfielder- to left-back at Ibrox against Rangers. It’s a move that should never be done again in the future.
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As for Gutman, he won the prestigious Hermann Trophy just days ago, which acknowledges the most highly-rated college football players.
He currently seems to be biding his time before his first major move in the game. Whether he would rather jump up to the MLS or make a move to Europe, however, will be a real dilemma for him.
He also appears to be a real goalscoring left-back too. It’s not often you get them, but Gutman had a terrific time at the Indiana Hoosiers. In his senior year, he managed to bag 11 goals in just 24 matches. Even creative midfielders would be delighted with that return.
Of course, for all of Gutman’s potential, he’s still untested. Whether Celtic really do make a move for him is unclear, particularly considering he won’t play ahead of Kieran Tierney.
Signing Gutman could also have a ripple effect on Izaguirre, who would then surely be contemplating his future at Parkhead yet again.