Celtic transfer rumours have actually been few and far between this summer, so when a number of articles appear addressing a specific department of the team, it naturally grabs people’s attention.
The Bhoys have already added Marco Tilio and Odin Thiago Holm to the squad with South Korean duo Yang Hyun-jun and Kwon Hyeuk-kyu expected to be announced as joining them this week.
But where will Brendan Rodgers turn to next and what kind of targets are Celtic now looking at? It seems the manager’s priority is in the defensive line, with two centre-backs linked over the last 24 hours and a goalkeeper also appearing on the radar last week.
The manager has said he is looking to add physicality to the squad during the transfer window, so to hear that the club are keen on the 6ft3in Polish defender Maik Nawrocki and the 6ft4in Xavier Mbuyama is of no real surprise. They’d assuredly provide that to the squad, at least.
A third, quality central defensive option would be very welcome in support of Cameron Carter-Vickers and Carl Starfelt. The duo have struck up a fine partnership but an injury to either suddenly leaves Celtic short, with Yuki Kobayashi and Stephen Welsh yet to really convince they can become regulars for the Hoops. Spending a decent chunk of money to bring a talented defender with first-team experience sounds good to me.
The interest in goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic also appeared genuine, even if it looks like he’s heading elsewhere from Dinamo Zagreb. The fact that Celtic are looking in this department is interesting, with Joe Hart currently installed as the club’s number one.
Hart made an error in the pre-season defeat to Yokohama F.Marinos. which has again increased the noise around his suitability to continue in that role. While that goal and result ultimately mean little, Celtic seeking a quality upgrade should be welcomed by the support.
Hart has been a fantastic signing for the club and he’ll always be fondly remembered but if the right target is out there then Celtic shouldn’t delay in seeking a successor. Even in a best-case scenario the English veteran only has a season or two left in him.
Ultimately, it looks like Rodgers’ focus is on the right part of the team. This defence needs new recruits, more depth and a bit of stability in place. Despite winning a treble, it’s no time to stand still and gains can be made here. We eagerly await to see which targets the club actually bite on.
In other news, Celtic confirm upcoming plans after change of scenery in Japan.
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