Celtic FC has had a tough season, finishing second in the Scottish Premiership, but as the summer transfer window approaches, the club is already eyeing potential targets that could boost their chances of a successful campaign next season. With several positions needing to be strengthened, the Hoops will be scouring the market for players who can make an immediate impact on the team.
One area of concern for Celtic is their defense. With Kristoffer Ajer likely to leave this summer, the club will need a new center-back. One player who has been linked with a move to Celtic is Shane Duffy. The Irishman had a difficult season on loan at his boyhood club, but Celtic could be willing to take a chance on him given his experience at Premier League and international level. If the Hoops do decide to make a move for Duffy, they will need to fight off interest from other clubs, with West Ham United and Burnley both reportedly interested in the player.
Celtic is also on the lookout for a new left-back. Diego Laxalt, who was on loan from AC Milan last season, has returned to his parent club, leaving a vacancy in the position. One player who has been linked with a move to Celtic is Aaron Hickey. The Scottish defender left Hearts last summer to join Bologna but failed to make an impact at the Serie A club, making just four appearances in the league. With Bologna reportedly willing to sell him, Celtic could be the perfect destination for the 19-year-old.
While Celtic’s defense needs strengthening, their attack also requires attention. The Hoops have been overly reliant on Odsonne Edouard this season, with the Frenchman scoring 18 goals in the league. To alleviate the burden on Edouard, Celtic is reportedly targeting a new striker. One player who has been linked with a move to the club is Ivan Toney. The Peterborough United forward had a phenomenal season, scoring 33 goals in 48 appearances in all competitions. His performances have attracted interest from numerous clubs, but Celtic could be among the frontrunners to sign him.
In addition to Toney, Celtic is also reportedly interested in signing a new winger. Mohamed Elyounoussi, who was on loan from Southampton last season, has returned to his parent club, leaving a void on the left flank. One player who has been linked with a move to Celtic is Ben Pearson. The Preston North End midfielder has been a standout performer in the Championship for several seasons and would provide Celtic with the energy and tenacity they desperately need in midfield.
Another midfielder who has been linked with a move to Celtic is Brandon Soppy. The 18-year-old has been earning rave reviews for his performances at youth level for French club Rennes and has been tipped for a bright future in the game. Celtic’s scouts have reportedly been monitoring Soppy’s progress and could make a move for him this summer.
While Celtic has plenty of targets on their radar this summer, they will need to sell players first to raise funds. The likes of Ajer, Kristoffer Vassbakk Ajer, and Tom Rogic could leave the club, with their sale expected to raise significant funds for new signings. Celtic could also look to sell some fringe players, such as Vakoun Bayo and Patryk Klimala, to further bolster their transfer kitty.
The summer transfer window promises to be a busy one for Celtic. With a new manager set to take charge and several positions needing to be strengthened, the Hoops will be hoping to make some shrewd signings that can help them challenge for the Scottish Premiership title next season. Whether they will be able to compete with their fierce rivals, Rangers, who won the league by a whopping 25 points this season, remains to be seen, but the club’s fans will be hoping for a better campaign next time around.