Celtic are all but confirmed Scottish Premiership champions after last weekend’s results, and Brendan Rodgers is already putting in work behind the scenes to bolster his squad for next campaign.
Celtic on the brink of being confirmed as champions
Brendan Rodgers’ changes worked a treat on home soil as Celtic saw off Kilmarnock in style to put the champagne on ice before the split.
Rangers may have clawed their way to an extended reprieve with a draw at Aberdeen the following day. Still, even the most optimistic of their supporters know it is only a matter of time before the Scottish Premiership crown heads to the east end of Glasgow.
Despite the popular misconception that both sides of the divide are competitors on an equal footing, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Should Celtic obtain a point from their first post-split outing, they will have won 13 out of the last 14 available titles by next weekend.
Unsurprisingly, Rodgers is already making strides on the transfer front to build for the new campaign, with Mathias Kvistgaarden on the agenda at Parkhead following his excellent form at Brondby.
Furthermore, the Bhoys are reportedly keen on a surprise move for Newcastle United’s Martin Dubravka. The Slovakia international may be available this summer, potentially creating movement between the sticks despite Viljami Sinisalo and Kasper Schmeichel’s presence at the club.
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The Hoops manager isn’t messing around.
Celtic’s involvement in Champions League qualifiers next term has placed time pressure on new arrivals. Rodgers won’t want any delays as his side look to bed in future contributors.
Now, the Bhoys are believed to have an exciting winger in their sights that could add a new dynamic to his squad once the transfer window opens.
Celtic eye summer move for EFL Championship star
According to The Scottish Sun, Celtic are eyeing a move for Stoke City star Million Manhoef as Rodgers views the Netherlands Under-21 cap as a potential squad signing for next season.
The 23-year-old was brought to the Potters for £3 million last summer, and it is likely that is the most he would cost with his current employers now at threat of relegation to the English third-tier.
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Celtic’s depth out wide – do they need another winger? |
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Jota |
Only joined in January, likely to be key going forward. |
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Nicolas Kuhn |
Could be susceptible to departure if interest arises. |
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Daizen Maeda |
May be permanently moved to centre-forward this summer. |
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James Forrest |
Veteran who will see out his career at Celtic. |
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Hyunjun Yang |
Likely to stay at Parkhead after recent improvement. |
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Luis Palma |
On loan at Olympiacos and certain to depart. |
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Conclusion: Celtic need another winger to maintain adequate squad depth. |
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Labelled “tricky” by journalist Dean Jones, Manhoef has registered six goals and four assists in 35 appearances this campaign and was a former target for city rivals Rangers. Formerly of Vitesse Arnhem, he has also created 48 chances and completed 48 dribbles on league duty since moving to the bet365 Stadium.
Now, Celtic appear to be firmly in the mix for his signature, which will come as a relief to supporters who are keen to see another body in the wide areas to ensure adequate cover is available.
