The wheels are starting to turn on Celtic’s transfer business this summer and there may finally be scope for arrivals this week.
Last Friday, social media was set ablaze as news broke that Kasper Schmeichel is set to be the Bhoys’ new goalkeeper as Brendan Rodgers looks to finalise a swoop for Denmark’s number one.
Imminently expected to undertake his medical, barring any hitches, the 37-year-old looks primed to sign on the dotted line at Parkhead, addressing a key position following the retirement of Joe Hart.
Simultaneously, Paulo Bernardo has left Benfica’s training camp as negotiations over his potential permanent switch to Celtic continue. Adam Idah is also still in talks over a return to the club, with both individuals coming under the banner of tried and tested after their successful loan spells last campaign.
With fans engulfed by anticipation that white smoke could fill the air in Glasgow’s east end, all three men mentioned could add one of football’s most desired commodities if the Bhoys are able to get them through the door this window.
Celtic’s need for experience and familiarity
Every summer, Celtic have to take the plunge on certain players, especially individuals with a younger profile who have shown promise that could be developed into something greater at Parkhead.
Nevertheless, one thing Schmeichel, Bernardo and Idah all have in common is experience and familiarity, even if there are diverging reasons as to why that is the case, which I am about to explain.
Taking Schmeichel into account, his trustworthy persona comes as a direct consequence of his alliance with Rodgers. Having spent three years under his stewardship, both have already established a fruitful relationship in the past, meaning there is no character reference needed from the man in charge.
Coupling this with his actual playing experience, which has seen the Copenhagen-born stopper make 284 appearances in the Premier League and achieve 105 caps for his nation, there is reason to suggest that his wisdom gained can help to replace the sizeable void left by Joe Hart between the sticks [Transfermarkt].
Profiling Bernardo and Idah, their selling point beyond the talent they retain is a little different. For them, the other main attraction is their understanding of Parkhead life after last campaign.
Experience comes in all shapes and sizes
Conceivably, Rodgers could look elsewhere for talent. With the wonders of modern-day scouting, it isn’t hard to investigate the availability of players in a transnational sense. Nevertheless, he already knows what Bernardo and Idah could potentially deliver, having seen it first-hand in 2023/24.
Celtic have taken their time with transfer business this summer, but it is clear the Irishman wants figures he can trust in the Glasgow pressure cooker rather than unknown quantities, at least to an extent.
There will be new faces, and some will be youthful in complexion, fitting the trading model of buying, developing and selling for a handsome profit. After all, the Bhoys are part of the football food chain, whether we like it or not.
Either way, trust is key to paving the foundations for success. Should Bernardo and Idah arrive, they have already lived through the demands bestowed upon the squad by an expectant support, adding their own sliver of experience despite only being 22 and 23 in age. I emphasise once again, if they arrive.
That could become vital if deals are wrapped up that see them again enter the fold. Bravery in the transfer market is required from the club, but veering towards the tried and tested mindset can help to build a balance in the dressing room.
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