Jeffrey Schlupp is the latest in a long line of players to be identified as a Celtic target this summer as the window approaches its final weeks.
While supporters await confirmation surrounding the future of Norwich City striker Adam Idah, Schlupp has come onto Brendan Rodgers’ radar in his search for additional bodies.
Celtic have submitted an enquiry for the Ghana international, and Crystal Palace are reportedly open for business. However, with a year left on his contract at Selhurst Park, it remains to be seen how much he could cost.
At 31 years of age, he would be someone brought in for the immediate term, but it would also be intriguing to see where the former Leicester City man would fit positionally at Celtic Park.
Regarded as a utility player, his prospective arrival comes with plenty of intrigue. Celtic don’t usually dip into the market for experience; their model is to buy low and sell at a premium.
Nevertheless, he could be a shrewd investment as Rodgers sizes up the Premier League market to bolster the ranks this summer.
Celtic’s need for bodies in different positions
Versatility is Schlupp’s primary selling point; there is no getting away from the fact his ability to function in several different positions would enrich Celtic amid their lack of bodies.
Predominantly, the Hamburg-born man has featured on the left-hand side of midfield for most of his career, with a large chunk of career experience also focused on plying his trade in central midfield and at left-back.
Unsurprisingly, Celtic are on the lookout for cover in both positions. Greg Taylor needs competition at left-back and there is an opening there for someone to push him to his limits.
On the same token, Matt O’Riley is the subject of constant transfer speculation. Bournemouth have joined Atalanta, Brighton & Hove Albion and Southampton in the race for his signature. Paulo Bernardo has re-joined the club, but that is unlikely to be enough if the Denmark international departs.
What Jeffrey Schlupp could offer to Celtic
With over 260 English top-flight appearances under his belt, Schlupp has competed against the best sides England has to offer on a seasonal basis for most of his career.
When Celtic are involved in the Champions League this season, his experience could prove vital if he can translate it to the European scene.
It hasn’t been talked about much, with everyone keen to jump on the left-back train, but his propensity to play further up that side of the pitch could be vital in preventing build-up play. Last term, he won 92 duels, 24 tackles, 22 aerial duels and made 54 recoveries in the Premier League [Fotmob].
Pace and power are two words familiar to Rodgers; they are also two requisite qualities needed to thrive in Europe’s premier competition. For all of Celtic’s technical qualities, there is space for one or two presences to disrupt the flow of continental opposition.
Schlupp is an astute footballer and isn’t monumental in size, standing at 5ft 10in. Nevertheless, his athleticism and work rate make him a trusted figure in the Premier League with plenty to offer besides his experience. He could easily have a few years still ahead at a notable level.
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