"We've identified players"; Ange Postecoglou previews "tricky" Celtic summer transfer window

By John McGinley

May 26, 2023

Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou has been discussing the club’s transfer business this summer, admitting it could be a difficult window due to clubs potentially coming in for high-performing players in the squad.

The Bhoys are heading into another big summer period looking to tool up for another title at the UEFA Champions League group stages, which the team are already guaranteed to be competing in.

Postecoglou has stated work is already well underway to prepare for the challenges ahead but has suggested it could be a “tricky” window to navigate for the club.

He said in a media conference today [Celtic FC]: “We’re not close to confirming anyone but our work started a while back. It’s an ongoing thing. I think this transfer market potentially could be a tricky one for us. It’s the first one where potentially they could come for some of our key players.

“We’ve got to be ready for that. We’ve got to insure ourselves against those kinds of things happening. We’ve identified players we think can make us a better side but also the insurance is there if we lose a couple, that we’re still in good shape. Over the course of events those things will get announced. The work is always ongoing.”

There’s already been plenty of speculation around Celtic players ahead of the window opening. Liel Abada, Kyogo Furuhashi and others have been the subject of transfer reports. It’s a natural by-product of success in a market that richer clubs can shop in.

Postecoglou will have a robust transfer budget to work with, even before we take into account player sale. The club undoubtedly have the resources to make sure the squad is stronger at the end of August than it is at the moment, regardless of who could leave.

As always, smart decisions need to be made, but the manager and staff in place have shown that, more often than not, they can get it right.

In other news, Celtic make class Trophy Day announcement.