Transfers

Brendan Rodgers ready to make Celtic cuts; honest discussions being held

Add as preferred source on Google

Brendan Rodgers is ready to trim some of the fat off the wider Celtic squad this summer after a period of assessment during pre-season training.

As we discussed yesterday, there are multiple contenders to be moved on from the Bhoys before the end of the window before even big tough decisions have to be made.

Rodgers knows this more than anyone and he’s already having some honest conversations with those in the squad who don’t have futures in Glasgow. And more are on the way.

The Celtic boss said [Scottish Sun]: “We will be looking to trim the squad. That will be the natural process. I’ve already spoken to a couple of players and I’m sure I will do over the course of pre-season.

“You have to be honest with players. Even if it’s a tough conversation, it’s the most humane way and the most direct way to tell them the plan. If that’s to move on and get playing football, then that’s what they have to do. Those conversations have already started but it will continue over the next few weeks.”

This is a positive update from the manager and exactly what is needed. Room has to be made for other signings and there are half a dozen who simply haven’t made progress over the last two years.

Bayer Leverkusen v Celtic FC: Group G - UEFA Europa League
Photo by Ralf Treese/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

Even people such as Albian Ajeti and Ismaila Soro, signed before the Ange Postecoglou era, are officially still at the club. Anyone moved on means there are more wage resources available to the recruitment staff, even if big transfer fees aren’t received.

Every outgoing we hear about this summer, as long as they are not crucial to the squad, is good news and an indicator the club are gearing up for transfers coming in the other direction.

In other news, Brendan Rodgers left impressed by Celtic duo in Portugal as he discusses box office rumour.