Report: Celtic tracking highly-regarded English youngster Ben Crompton

By David Walton

May 17, 2022

Celtic have been tracking the progress of young English centre-back Ben Crompton, according to the Shropshire Star.

The report states that the talented defender is set to become a free agent despite being highly regarded at Shrewsbury Town.

Crompton has decided not to extend his stay with Shrewsbury despite being offered a new deal. The player had yet to make a matchday squad for the English club.

The Shropshire Star claims Crompton, who spent 10 years in Wolves’ academy, was one of the top performers in his age group and also trained with the Shrewsbury first-team.

Crompton can also play as a midfielder but has predominantly played at centre-half for Shrewsbury’s under-18 side.

Celtic have shown strong intent over the last 12 months to try and boost their B team ranks. With another campaign in the Lowland League on the cards for next season, it looks as though Crompton is one of the names in the frame.

Ben Crompton to Celtic would be an immediate B team prospect

Whilst nothing has been confirmed yet, you have to imagine this is an opportunity Crompton would absolutely grab with both hands. To go from Shrewsbury to Celtic is a heck of a step-up, even if it would be likely that the B team would be calling his name first and foremost.

It is still to be seen what competition lies in wait for the youngster’s signature too. Given Shrewsbury wanted to keep him, you have to imagine he’s been told that there will be better offers elsewhere.

Celtic, of course, would be giving him a unique opportunity and one that would be guaranteed to see him develop over the next 12 months.

If Crompton decided to come to Parkhead and take part in the Lowland League, it would be a big step up from under-18s football. Undoubtedly, being a part of the competition gives Celtic a real carrot to dangle in front of potential B team signings.

Ange Postecoglou will be itching to bolster his first-team ranks. But at the same time, we also have a responsibility to ensure we’re signing up talented youngsters who could make an impact in the long-term.

Time will tell whether Crompton is one who’s offered that opportunity.

In other news, Opinion: Celtic need 5 summer signings as Ange Postecoglou prepares for stage 2