Charlie Mulgrew has his say on the Celtic recruitment model

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Buy low and sell high has been Celtic’s recruitment policy for some time now as the club seeks to maximise its financial capability.

This strategy isn’t unique to Parkhead, but it has contributed significantly to the Bhoys’ sound economic position, which has seen them become one of the most profitable clubs on the continent.

With that in mind, there is an emphasis for Celtic to act in the market this window. Supporters are growing frustrated at the lack of incomings, an understandable sentiment in light of strong reserves of cash in the bank.

Nevertheless, the wait continues for new additions. The Hoops have submitted a fresh bid for Adam Idah, so hopefully, he can join Paulo Bernardo, Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo as recent arrivals.

While fans wait on tenterhooks, Charlie Mulgrew has outlined why Celtic have managed to keep their conveyor belt of sizeable sales alive for more than a decade.

Charlie Mulgrew on Celtic’s recruitment policy

Speaking to The Celtic Way, Mulgrew outlined his belief that the system in place of buying talent to sell further down the line is beneficial for everyone, referencing plenty of examples that have gone on to feature at the top level.

He stated: “You don’t need me to list half the players, Van Dijk, Wanyama, players that have all done it in the past, Edouard and Dembele. The model they’ve got has been successful. Nobody can argue with the quality that gets brought in and sold on for even more money.

“I think when you look at what these players do for the club, everybody benefits. The club benefits and the player benefits; it’s a no-brainer. It’s amazing, of course, all the Celtic fans, and I know the club would like to hold onto these players.

“There comes a point where, when do you keep them too long? They become unhappy, and then they lose form. Before you know it, it’s a disaster because the player doesn’t want to be there, you’re holding onto a player against his will, and they want to go and earn more money somewhere else, so it’s about getting that timing right. Celtic have got it spot-on in the past.”

Celtic won’t want Matt O’Riley to follow the same trend

Matt O’Riley is the elephant in the room here, isn’t he? Why else would Mulgrew reference this process if it wasn’t about him?

The Denmark international is in talks with Brighton & Hove Albion over a potential move down south. The Premier League outfit are said to have submitted an offer in excess of £25 million for his services.

Whether he does end up at the Amex Stadium or stays at Celtic remains to be seen. However, Brendan Rodgers would loath to lose his star man, who registered 19 goals and 18 assists last season.

His influence in midfield is there for all to see; Celtic wouldn’t have achieved their success in 2023/24 without the former MK Dons playmaker leading the way.

Hopefully, the club can ward off interest and retain O’Riley for another year as they seek further silverware during Rodgers’ second spell in charge.