Robbie Keane is one of the frontrunners to become the Celtic manager and, if appointed, would have to perform some major surgery on this squad.
Keane’s close connections to Dermot Desmond mean he is always in the conversation and as a self-confessed Celtic fan, would surely love to replace Martin O’Neill in the future.
Whether it is the former Ireland striker or someone else, they are going to have a huge job on their hands to rebuild the team. With that in mind, here are three players that Keane could sign if appointed.
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Julian Araujo – Celtic (on loan from Bournemouth)
The most obvious one, which applies to any manager coming in.
Julian Araujo may have been linked with Cruz Azul but the Mexico international should be a priority for the Bhoys.
He has transformed the right side of the pitch and has instantly bought into the culture at Celtic.
Araujo would thrive in Keane’s 4-3-3 and 3-5-2 formations and could even play on the wing as Alistair Johnston will be back for next season.
Peer Koopmeiners – AZ Alkmaar
Celtic need someone in the middle of the park who can work alongside Callum McGregor to be the engine.
That means getting up and down the pitch, breaking up play to stop opposition attacks but also to run from deep into the box and support the attacking options.
Since he is valued around the £10m mark, he would likely become one of the Hoops’ most expensive signings of all time, but would be worth it for his experience in European competitions, and for being an upgrade on the likes of Paulo Bernardo.
Nicolo Tresoldi – Hannover 96 (on loan at Club Brugge)
Keane was a proven goalscorer in his playing days and should therefore have an eye for a striker capable of putting the ball in the back of the net.
Strikers don’t come cheaply, but Nicolo Tresoldi could be worth spending a few million on.
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The 21-year-old has averaged a goal every 164 minutes across all competitions this season, which is a remarkable feat.
His young age means he could lead the line for years to come and as Hannover 96’s chances of returning to the Bundesliga aren’t guaranteed, a player who has been competing in the Champions League with Club Brugge will have aspirations of playing in Europe again.
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