Stephen Welsh’s revolving Celtic situation amid summer interest

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Stephen Welsh has been a squad member at Celtic over the last few years despite prominent interest in his services from elsewhere.

The 24-year-old has recently attracted interest from KV Mechelen. Nevertheless, Celtic booted out an approach from the Jupiler Pro League outfit and have made it clear he isn’t available at this stage in the window.

Brendan Rodgers is still said to be assessing his defensive line. Yuki Kobayashi and Gustaf Lagerbielke are attracting interest; meanwhile, Maik Nawrocki may be allowed to leave on loan in the right circumstances.

Cameron Carter-Vickers and Liam Scales lead as Celtic’s first-choice central defensive pairing. Evaluating reports, Welsh could well be the third in command if others are to depart.

Stephen Welsh and his revolving situation at Celtic

Admittedly, it does feel like Welsh’s career at Celtic has gone around in circles a little. This summer isn’t the first window he has attracted interest, with Toulouse, Udinese, Bologna and Hellas Verona all previously courting the defender in recent years.

The Scot also has admirers in the English Championship and Major League Soccer, so due to his talent, he isn’t short of suitors. Despite his profile, injuries have been a major contributor to his lack of regular involvement at the Bhoys.

Over the last three seasons, Welsh has made just 44 appearances for Celtic. Caught between a rock and a hard place, he exists as a sound homegrown option at Parkhead who rarely lets the side down when called upon, but it feels unlikely he will become a first choice any time soon.

There is a school of thought where he could take his future into his own hands by seeking a new challenge elsewhere. Contrariwise, the complication is that he signed a new contract last year until the summer of 2027.

Celtic are under no pressure to sell Welsh; he is their player, and three years is a healthy deal length to bargain from. While their defensive structure undergoes scrutiny, it is clear he will remain a valued asset.

Hopefully, the Coatbridge-born man can steer clear of injury and kick on after a frustrating couple of years where he has been unable to have a marked run in the side.