Celtic and Patrick Berg, the international teammate of Ajer and Elyounoussi

By John McGinley

June 7, 2021

There is interest from Scotland, potentially Celtic, in Bodo/Glimt midfielder Patrick Berg, Norwegian outlet VG reported over the weekend.

The newspaper doesn’t indicate whether it’s the Bhoys or Rangers keen on the player, but multiple teams are tracking the 23-year-old.

Clubs from the Netherlands have also shown interest, it’s reported.

However, the 2020 Eliteserien champions are hopeful of holding onto the player, with clubs so far indicating they’re not willing to pay more than £1.3m for him.

The player’s contract runs until December 2022, so they don’t have much breathing space when it comes to deciding to sell. [Transfermarkt]

Why Patrick Berg is a talent Celtic should be watching

Berg has emerged as a bright young talent in Norway and is approaching the age to take the next step in his career.

The midfielder is a leader within his squad, despite his young years. He has attained vice-captain status and wears the armband regularly.

He was a prominent part of their title-winning side last year, pushing himself into international contention with Norway. He’s won four caps for his country. All of those have come over the last three months.

Celtic will likely be on the hunt for a central midfielder this summer. Scott Brown has left to join Aberdeen, while Olivier Ntcham doesn’t appear to have a future in Glasgow.

Are Celtic interested in Patrick Berg? / (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)

Berg has that combative streak in a deeper midfield role that makes him a viable contender to partner Callum McGregor or more creative talents.

That, allied with his strong leadership credentials, is promising from our perspective.

Attracting an impressive Scandinavian prospect to Scotland before they make a move to the Bundesliga, or elsewhere, would be an exciting move from the Bhoys.

It doesn’t sound like he’d cost the world, even if Bodo/Glimt are holding out for a bigger fee. One to keep an eye on, given the interest from Scotland.

In other news, the rumour mill indicates Peter Lawwell has already left Celtic Park.