It looks like Celtic are very close to completing the signing of Hapoel Be’er Sheva defender Hatem Abd Elhamed. The Scottish Sun reports that a fee of £1.6 million has been agreed for the player, who will sign a four-year contract.
However, the report goes on to claim that the player is ‘likely’ to be used as a right-back by Hoops boss Neil Lennon. That should concern the Celtic support.
Mostly played as centre-back
The reason for that is that the player has mostly played as a centre-back throughout his career. The player made 27 appearances for Be’er Sheva last season, but only four were at right-back.
If Elhamed is being signed as a back-up right-back then the situation is justifiable. However, if he becomes the permanent right-back that is a concern.
It would be much more preferable if a natural right-back was signed, rather than one who plays there occasionally.
Could still turn out to be a good signing
That does not mean that Elhamed won’t be a good signing for the Hoops. Neil Lennon must feel that the player has something to offer the club.
Perhaps he will go on to do an excellent job for Celtic at right-back. However, the Hoops should continue their quest for a right-back even if Elhamed does sign.
That position is very important to the Hoops, and it has to be filled as soon as possible.
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