Celtic have Brest midfielder Haris Belkebla on the transfer radar this summer, according to a report from Algerian outlet Le Buteur.
They state that the Scottish champions have been in contact about securing a deal for the Ligue 1 regular and have put forward an interesting offer, though Brest are currently unwilling to entertain the idea of letting him go.
The outlet believes that the player himself would be keen on the adventure of moving to Scotland, with rivals Rangers also credited with an interest.
However, having made himself a key part of manager Olivier Dall’Oglio’s first-team squad, it looks like it could take a big effort to convince the French top-flight side to part with their man.
Belkebla made 23 appearances for his club last season before the curtailment of Ligue 1, performing primarily in a defensive midfield role.
The Algerian international doesn’t appear to be the most creative talent, registering zero goals or assists in 2019/20.
That could go against him in an almost always attacking Celtic side, but as a midfield spoiler, he may be able to do a job.
His average of 2.3 interceptions per game (WhoScored) indicates he is a busy operator who can snuff out opposition play. That’s an average that puts him in the top 5 when it comes to Ligue 1 interceptions per game (WhoScored).
It’s arguable whether or not Celtic need a player to perform such duties, especially in domestic action.
With Scott Brown, Callum McGregor and Olivier Ntcham in the squad, as well as Ismaila Soro, we are well stocked in the middle of the park before even considering emerging talents.
Still, it’s a name to watch over the coming weeks in case this reported interest blossoms into something tangible.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
