‘Quality’ – John Hartson shares his verdict on where Celtic could add to their squad in January

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Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has plenty on his plate ahead of the January transfer window opening for business in a couple of weeks.

In terms of potential incoming, there is nowhere else to start bar intensifying reports that Kieran Tierney could be set for an emotional Celtic return after Arsenal chose not to activate his year extension option at the Emirates Stadium.

Set to be a free agent next summer, the Scotland international is also open to a wage cut to seal a spine-tingling Parkhead reunion with Brendan Rodgers.

Further up the left-hand side, Celtic have identified Sarpsborg’s Sondre Ørjasæter as a target to bolster the wide areas with competition.

Michel-Ange Balikwisha is another potential Bhoys pursuit as speculation continues to swirl regarding potential mid-season arrivals.

With that in mind, John Hartson has delivered his own spin on how many players Celtic could look to acquire once the market opens for business.

John Hartson expects Celtic to add ‘quality’ additions

Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, Hartson expects his old club to have their eye on one or two ‘quality’ additions should the opportunity present itself, with right-back one area where activity could occur.

He stated: “I think they will strengthen because good teams with quality and some funds as well to spend, which is really important because Brendan hasn’t been given funds. I think it was his first season when he was back up here and he went on and obviously won the title, not against the odds, but he had to go with what he had, strengthened in the summer, spent a fair bit of money. But I don’t think they’ll go (for) wholesale sort of signings.

“I think I think top teams, which Celtic are, they’ll certainly bring in one or two to add to the quality that they’ve got. I’d be very surprised if they don’t make any signings. Brendan will have a good look at what he’s got, who possibly he can let go and obviously fill them positions.

“I think centre-forward wise, Kyogo, Idah, he’s well covered on that right hand side. Kuhn, Jamesy Forrest, on that right hand side, he’s got cover. Trusty, he’s got Scales and Carter-Vickers. You go all around the team, you’ve got Ralston, maybe you want to improve somebody on that right hand side as well as Johnston. The options are there, but I’m sure they’ve got their eye on a couple of signings.”

Celtic will want Champions League quality in the building

Strictly speaking, Celtic could probably make it through to the end of the season with their current squad and experience a level of success similar to previous campaigns.

However, their potential to reach the Champions League knockout stages opens the door to inheriting a new calibre of player that would be welcomed at Parkhead.

Now, the onus is on Rodgers and his recruitment team to profile individuals who would enrich their cause. Hopefully, they can do just that.