Neil Lennon eyes early close to English transfer window as Celtic opportunity

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Neil Lennon thinks the close of the English transfer window can give Celtic ‘more scope’ when it comes to securing summer deals, The Scottish Sun report.

So far the Hoops have made four first-team signings but plenty of work still needs done to the squad if it’s going to have the depth required for a long, successful season.

Progress has been pretty slow but the club have demonstrated they will spend if the right player comes along.

Lennon is relaxed about the situation, feeling there will be more opportunities in August to make progress.

As quoted by The Scottish Sun, he said: “It’s calm. There has been a lot of hard work going on and we are still looking to add to, and cull a bit, of the squad.

“We would like to get what we want as quickly as possible but it is not always as easy as that.

“The English window shutting earlier gives us a little bit more scope to bring players in as well.”

When does the English window close and why is it important?

The key date to keep in mind is August 8th. The English window shuts for top-flight and Championship clubs at 5pm on that day, just before the start of the Premier League season.

Lennon could see it as a benefit for two reasons.

Firstly, Celtic would not have to directly compete with clubs for players. Obviously we aren’t going head-to-head with mega rich sides for expensive talents regardless. However, scouted gems within our reach are likely on the radar of plenty English clubs too. Anything that makes our position stronger in negotiations is a positive.

Secondly, there could also be the chance to bring some fringe players not included in elite sides’ Premier League squads to Scotland. Whether on loan or a permanent deal, the pool of available stars becomes bigger when managers in England decide with certainty who they’ll be working with, or not, until January.

We’ve seen moves for players like Patrick Roberts and Jason Denayer work out well in the past. Is another in that bracket waiting in the wings?

At the very least, Lennon’s comments suggest plenty of transfer action is on the horizon for the club. Let’s hope they are in the door sooner rather than later.