Celtic’s reported continuing interest in Sampdoria’s Omar Colley might consider a surprise to some fans. After all, the Hoops have just signed Shane Duffy to play at centre-back.
However, the interest does seem to be there in the player. On Thursday Sky Sport News’ Anthony Joseph disclosed that Celtic have enquired about Colley, but no bids have been made for a player that Sampdoria rate at £10m.
Now, should Celtic sign Colley, a lot will be made about Kristoffer Ajer’s future. However, there is no real reason for Celtic to sell the player unless the club receives a ridiculously high offer. Also, having competition at centre-back can only be a good thing, especially in this hectic season.
If Colley did sign though, there would be repercussions for two other players – Nir Bitton and Hatem Abd Elhamed.
Duo have fit in at centre-back
At times, Bitton and Elhamed have played at centre-back for Celtic. Elhamed played there in last season’s memorable 2-0 win over Rangers. Bitton played there recently in the games against Reykjavík and Dundee United.
However, neither player is naturally a centre-back. Bitton is a holding midfielder, and Elhamed is a right-back. You would imagine that neither player would be considered for selection at centre-back if Colley joined the Hoops.
After all, it would mean that Celtic have four natural centre-backs on the books – Colley, Duffy, Ajer and Christopher Jullien.
May be used more in natural positions
Therefore, Elhamed and Bitton would likely be used more in their normal positions, of midfielder and right-back. Would Colley’s arrival prevent the duo from getting any more game time? At centre-back certainly.
However, Bitton does not start every game for the Hoops. He could now turn his attention to battling the likes of Scott Brown for a place in the middle of the park.
As for Elhamed, he faces a battle with Jeremie Frimpong for a place in the Celtic side. This season, he may have to be content with winning that battle.
The signing of Colley would be a real statement by Celtic, and would have a big impact on the club. Only time will tell if the move happens or not.
In other news, Shane Duffy has vowed his game will improve the fitter he gets.
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