Celtic confirm first exit of January transfer window as Brendan Rodgers starts to shape squad

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Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers is beginning to shape his squad during the January window as movement starts to occur in both directions.

The Bhoys have made no secret of their desire to add further star quality this month. However, outgoings are an essential part of the process to clear wage space and free up room.

Last night, Celtic defeated Dundee United to extend their advantage at the top of the Scottish Premiership to 16 points. With a fourth successive title a concrete possibility, the mid-season market is the perfect opportunity to build for the future.

Brendan Rodgers also has the task of undertaking how to trim his group appropriately to make sure competition for places is finely balanced across every position.

Now, the Irishman has sanctioned the first Celtic exit of the January transfer window following confirmation earlier today.

Stephen Welsh departs Celtic for KV Mechelen on loan

Stephen Welsh has become the first casualty of the January transfer window for Celtic after moving to join KV Mechelen on loan for the remainder of the campaign.

Taking to social media platform X, the club announced the news as the 24-year-old hopes to claim regular minutes while in Belgium.

They said: “Stephen Welsh has joined KV Mechelen on loan until the end of the season. Best of luck, Stephen!”

Welsh has made 68 appearances for the Bhoys, scoring four times and claiming a solitary assist. However, he leaves after only two outings this season after falling behind in the pecking order.

Over the last few days, the Scotland Under-21 cap completed a medical at KV Mechelen before the finishing touches to his move were ratified. Dane Murray will be his replacement.

Celtic wish Stephen Welsh well ahead of KV Mechelen chapter

In a statement on Celtic’s official club website, the club added: “Celtic defender, Stephen Welsh has joined Belgian Pro League club, KV Mechelen on loan until the end of this season.

“The centre-half has featured twice for the Celts this season, firstly in the 5-2 League Cup quarter-final win over Falkirk, and then helped keep a clean sheet in the 0-0 draw with Dundee United at Tannadice in the run-up to Christmas.

“Everyone at Celtic Football Club wishes Stephen all the best in his loan spell at KV Mechelen.”

Taking his limited opportunities into account this term, loaning Welsh to Belgium is a suitable move for all parties that will raise his market value.

Hopefully, he can enjoy a fruitful spell at the Jupiler Pro League outfit before returning to the club this summer.