Celtic have been watching across the globe for new transfer targets this year, having scouts look at leagues in South Korea, Iran and the UAE amongst other countries, Anthony Joseph of Sky Sports has reported tonight.
Joseph believes a number of targets from the Middle East, Asia and North Africa have emerged, including South Korea forward Cho Gue-sung, who has already been linked with a move to the Bhoys in the Scottish Press.
The Sky Sports man also backs up Mark Hendry’s report over the weekend regarding Mohamed Magdy, known as Afsha, who plies his trade at Egyptian side Al-Ahly.
Ange Postecoglou has long spoken about the virtue of tapping into less recognised player markets, previously namechecking South Korea and Iran himself.
Celtic have signed players from clubs in Argentina, Japan, Poland, France, England, Canada, Russia, Portugal, Israel, Netherlands, Ireland and Scotland since the Australian’s arrival, showcasing that the right value can be found at home and abroad.
It’s very important that the Bhoys maximise their deals in the transfer market if progress is going to be made on the European front, where clubs in larger leagues often have much more resources available.
The proliferation of data and video analysis makes it easier than ever to keep tabs on players further afield, which can then be bolstered by in-person scouting.
With Mark Lawwell now also in the building to help Postecoglou with recruitment, the hope is that Celtic can become even more efficient in buying low and selling big while providing the manager with the best squad in the country.
In other news, “He spoke so highly of the fanbase”; Former Celtic hero helped convince Alistair Johnston.
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