Charlie Mulgrew tells Celtic their January transfer ‘priority’, as he raises Arne Engels issue

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Celtic fans are expecting nothing other than a busy January transfer window.

The powers that be in the Celtic boardroom have no time to dwell because it’s such a small and complex window to work under.

Everyone saw the mess Celtic made of the 2025 summer transfer window, and it resulted in Brendan Rodgers heading for the exit door.

Wilfried Nancy needs backing here, and Charlie Mulgrew was pretty clear in the areas that need strengthening, as he raised his doubts over Arne Engels.

• READ MORE: Simon Donnelly suggests two SPFL strikers for Celtic in January, bemoans transfer ‘snobbery’

You have £20m to spend in the January transfer window. How are you spending it?

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Charlie Mulgrew on Arne Engels’ role and Celtic needing a defensive-minded midfielder

Over the weekend, Celtic beat Livingston 4-2 in a chaotic game, with Engels scoring from the penalty spot.

But speaking on Go Radio, Mulgrew stated that one of the ‘priorities’ for Celtic in January is to sign a ‘number six.’

Mulgrew pointed towards Engels, and how he simply can’t play that role because ‘his first thought is always forward.’

“I think priority has to be a number six,” said Mulgrew. “A defensive midfielder who can sense danger.

“I don’t think Engels, alongside McGregor. I watch Engels against Livingston, and his first thought is always forward. His first thought is always trying to run forward. Try to create. Try to score goals.

“I think you need somebody who sits there disciplined: Narrow and central to guard against the counter-attack.”

What else do Celtic need during the January transfer window?

In truth, Celtic have needed someone who can sit alongside Callum McGregor, or even ease the pressure off his shoulders, for some time now.

But there are bigger fish to fry during the January transfer window, as Mulgrew laid both of them down on the table.

“I also think Celtic need a right centre back, if Carter-Vickers isn’t going to be back quickly,” added Mulgrew.

“And, 100%, the main priority is a striker. Somebody who can put the ball in the net and is a focal point. Iheanacho showed in spells that he could be that man, but he is too injury-prone. Kenny isn’t the answer.”