Normally, we’re used to going into transfer deadline day as Celtic fans with several stories doing he rounds involving some of our main targets.
However, today is a little different. We’re used to Celtic not being particularly proactive, especially in the January window. Take last year for example when the only signing we made was Jonjoe Kenny on loan from Everton.
Things have changed this year under Ange Postecoglou and chief executive Michael Nicholson. Celtic have worked tirelessly to bring in 5 signings already. Daizen Maeda, Reo Hatate, Yosuke Ideguchi, Johnny Kenny, and Matt O’Riley have all signed up.
All of a sudden, the squad is looking seriously strong as we await some injury returns. And the manager has already made it clear what his priorities are before the window shuts.
Indeed, Postecoglou wants Celtic to focus on getting youngsters some game-time elsewhere [Celtic TV]. That means we can expect hopefully plenty of loan agreements coming to fruition today. The likes of Osaze Urhoghide, Dane Murray, and Ismaila Soro are just some of the potential players who would benefit from loan moves.
In terms of potential incomings, the Daily Record has reported that there could be scope for a left-sided winger or defender. If Celtic are to make any signing today, you have to imagine it’ll be in that left-back position.
Celtic in no need to recruit, but is there scope for one more?
Another big goal of Celtic’s today will be to try and attract some offers for their deadwood. The likes of Vasilis Barkas, Boli Bolingoli, and Albian Ajeti all remain on the wage bill despite the fact they clearly have no futures here.
Getting rid of all 3 looks like a pipe dream at the moment. Especially considering the contracts these 3 will have been given over the last couple of years. But work must be done to see if we can get them off the wage bill and potentially free up room for a late signing.
But don’t expect any fireworks out of Celtic Park tonight. Yes, the Hoops tend to try and get something done late on to try and spark some excitement. However, we’re under new management both on and off the field this term. Celtic will be keeping an eye out, but as things stand a new signing looks unlikely.
The truth is that Celtic are now feeling the benefits of doing their work early. There is no panic amongst the support or the management over getting in key targets to cover major gaps in the squad. What Celtic really need are their injured players to return.
If the Hoops were sitting here with everyone fit, we likely aren’t even talking about any potential deadline-day signings. Ange is clearly happy with his squad, and we can’t bring in a player just because it’s the final day of the window and we need some excitement.
Loan departures will likely be the theme of the day with some deadwood heading out the door if possible. Anything other than that would be a slight surprise.
In other news, Report: Osaze Urhoghide set to leave Celtic on loan with exciting move on the table
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