Latest statistics show Dedryck Boyata can easily be replaced by Kristoffer Ajer.
The wantaway defender is aiming for a Parkhead exit between now and the summer.
Fans are pressing the backroom staff to find a replacement in the transfer market. However, the Norwegian is already showing similar ability to the Belgium international.
Not much separates Boyata and Ajer
Figures released yesterday by Alan Morrison of Celtic By Numbers reveals the numbers behind the Hoops defensive record.
The graph shows that first choice centre-backs Boyata and Filip Benkovic are overall the best defenders.
MORE CELTIC STORIES
However, Ajer runs Boyata close in terms of defensive actions won.
Extended figures given to 67 Hail Hail by Alan Morrison shows the former and latter are both on 78% so far this season – nothing separates them on that regard.
Where Boyata does excel slightly more than his younger team-mate is possession won, with the Belgian on a staggering 96% while Ajer isn’t far off on 88%.
Finally, only a percentage separates the two when it comes to passes completed.
Ajer is saving millions in the transfer market
Should Celtic not recruit a first choice centre-back in the summer, those stats show Ajer can step up.
Fans want the board to spend millions in the next two windows to replace Boyata.
If the 20-year-old fancies it, he can boost his game further this season to show Brendan Rodgers that he doesn’t need to spend the cash to replace the departing Belgian.
There is clearly room to develop at such a young age and is pushing someone who is in his prime time as footballer.
Jozo Simunovic is also close to Ajer on the stats table but being injury prone is a massive disadvantage.
Rodgers has a big decision to make within the next six months when it comes to defence. Does he bow to fan pressure or look at the numbers to choose who should be playing in the first team?