Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers will want to bolster numbers before the end of the window with quality additions to provide competition across the squad.
Midfield is set to be a focal point of activity. Paulo Bernardo arrived earlier in the month, but his presence alone is unlikely to appease an expectant support.
The elephant in the room at Celtic is Matt O’Riley’s future. Brighton & Hove Albion appear to have pulled out of the race for the Denmark international as they close in on Mainz star Brajan Gruda.
Nevertheless, Atalanta remain an interested party as they eye reinforcements to compete in the Champions League. Southampton and Juventus have also been linked, so there is still plenty of speculation surrounding his next steps.
Rodgers may have to dip into the market to replace any outgoings and has now identified a promising Bundesliga operator who could fit the bill if reports are to be believed.
Celtic reportedly target Augsburg midfielder Arne Engels
According to Football Transfers, Augsburg midfielder Arne Engels has emerged as one of Celtic’s ‘top targets’ this summer as Rodgers looks to elevate his options in the engine room. His current employers could be open to a sale before the window ends.
The 20-year-old predominantly plays central midfield for the Bundesliga outfit but can also fill in as a six, in a more advanced midfield role, or at right-back.
Last season, he made 33 appearances in all competitions for Augsburg, registering three goals and five assists across his various roles.
Engels created 19 chances and delivered 16 successful crosses on league duty. Defensively, he also put up impressive numbers, winning 66 duels and 18 tackles [Fotmob].
His exploits at club level earned him an invite to train with the Belgium squad ahead of Euro 2024 in Germany.
Celtic looking to plug gaps with versatile additions
News of interest in Engels may come as a surprise. However, it is clear that Rodgers is looking to plug the gaps in his squad with versatile additions.
Celtic submitted an enquiry for Jeffrey Schlupp last week, who can play in midfield or on the left-hand side. Crystal Palace are open to discussing a deal, so there could be a deal to pursue.
On the same token, Southampton’s Shea Charles has been mooted as a target for the Bhoys. The Northern Ireland international is adept in midfield, central defence, or right-back, illustrating his adaptable nature.
In the event of injuries, having players available to slot in without major hesitation would be a smart series of moves to make, factoring in the long season ahead for Celtic.
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