Liverpool could sell Celtic January target Ben Davies this summer, according to ESPN.
The report claims that the Merseysiders have a surplus of centre-backs after securing the £36m signing of Ibrahima Konate from Leipzig. They therefore believe that the Anfield club will listen to offers for the likes of Davies, Joel Matip, and Nat Phillips respectively.
Davies had had a hellish first few months at Liverpool with regards to playing time. He’s yet to play a single minute with his new club. However, when speaking about the situation back in March, Jurgen Klopp appeared to hint at a long-term plan for him [Liverpool Echo].
But it’s difficult to see where Davies gets his first-team football at Anfield. Liverpool will also welcome back Virgil van Dijk from a long-term injury this summer. That will leave them with a host of options ahead of Davies.
It remains to be seen what the player wants. However, with Celtic suffering from major centre-back shortages this summer, this could be one to keep an eye on.
Liverpool to Celtic for Ben Davies would be some story
Celtic were in desperate need of centre-back cover even back in January. It’s why when we were made to believe Davies was coming to Parkhead, it was a big relief. That would only last a few days, however, with Liverpool swooping in out of nowhere to get a deal wrapped up.
Neil Lennon would claim afterwards that Celtic had been “gazumped” by the former EPL champions [Sky Sports]. However, if anything, it was a sign of efficiency with regards to the speed Liverpool were able to make their move. We only had ourselves to blame for not being more forceful with our transfer strategy.
It would be interesting to see how much Liverpool would be willing to sell Davies for. It really could be anything considering he was plucked on a pre-contract deal. No doubt it won’t be cheap of course.
Celtic have likely bagged a list of potential targets for the new manager to take a look at when he joins. It’s anyone’s guess as to whether Davies has even made the list. However, preferably, loan deals would be avoided this summer as we look for a long-term rebuild of the football club.
With Shane Duffy already gone and Kris Ajer likely to follow, that’s potentially two new replacements necessary. Celtic can’t rely on Christopher Jullien’s long-term fitness over the course of the season, whilst Nir Bitton should be sold if we get the chance of a decent fee.
Davies, if available, would be a fine replacement. But trying to find a good deal for the club financially here could be tricky. It all depends on how much Liverpool want to play ball here. Don’t be surprised if Celtic take a peek here.
In other news, a Celtic invincible reportedly ready to leave Germany for a new challenge.
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