Celtic are showing transfer interest in Union Berlin wide man Niko Gießelmann, SportsBild have reported this week. [08/12 print edition]
The German outlet believes that Celtic and a number of unnamed English clubs are keen on his signature, with his current contract due to expire at the end of this season.
Gießelmann, 30, primarily plays at at left midfield or left-back and has been in good form for Union this season, hitting three goals and creating four assists in 14 Bundesliga appearances. [Transfermarkt]
He had a starring role in a derby victory over Hertha Berlin late last month, setting up both goals in a 2-0 result. His team are currently chasing a European qualification position in the top-flight.
Niko Gießelmann could be Greg Taylor competition at Celtic
Celtic’s reported interest is intriguing given some of the other players we’ve been linked to in recent weeks. Reo Hatate ostensibly plays a similar left-sided role, though there is a suspicion he may be used in a more central area.
Daizen Maeda meanwhile is also a player who can play out wide, though he may be earmarked for the middle too, much like Kyogo Furuhashi has been since arriving from Japan.
If Celtic’s interest is genuine, it seems to me Gießelmann would be coming in as competition for Greg Taylor. Boli Bolingoli’s future at Celtic is in significant doubt given his lack of appearances while Liam Scales is only just getting up to speed at the Bhoys now.
Some fans would undoubtedly argue that left-back is a priority position in the upcoming transfer window and beyond.
If Gießelmann can be signed up on a pre-contract and then a cheap buy-out, he could well be a fine transfer next month. One to watch.
In other news, Ange Postecoglou sends strong message to Celtic fringe players ahead of Betis.
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