According to reports, Celtic centre-half Efe Ambrose is all set to join Scottish club Hibernian on a short-term deal after spending a successful loan stint with them.
Ambrose was extremely close to joining Championship side Blackburn Rovers in the winter but a deal fell through right at the last moment. He then joined Hibernian on loan until the end of the season and has now returned to Celtic. However, his relationship with Celtic’s former boss Neil Lennon has been smooth as was evident by his effective 12 appearances for the side helping them win the Scottish Championship title in the process.
A centre-half by nature, Ambrose is versatile in the defensive third of the field with the ability to play as the right back as well as a defensive midfielder. The Nigerian international had moved to Celtic back in 2012 from Israel’s FC Ashdod. He has won four Scottish Premiership titles as well the Scottish Cup and Scottish League Cup with the Bhoys.
He will undoubtedly be a big miss for Brendan Rodgers, who is in the market for quality centre-halves in hopes of a better European campaign next season. And here are three centre-halves he can target this summer:
Lamine Kone (Sunderland):
With Sunderland now relegated, Kone is a sure departure from the Stadium of Light. The Ivory Coast defender played a significant role in helping the Black Cats survive the relegation last season, but couldn’t do any such thing this season. A lot of top Premier League clubs are pursuing the defender with Crystal Palace, West Bromwich Albion and Everton being the frontrunners, but Celtic’s Champions League status could be a massive advantage for the Scottish club in landing the highly-rated player.
Steve Cook (Bournemouth):
One of the defenders, who has gained huge traction this season for his performances among the likes of Ben Gibson, Michael Keane, Harry Maguire and more is Steve Cook. The 26-year-old has a huge physical presence at the back and sees off most of the aerial attacks. He could be instrumental from set-pieces and his disciplined defending reflects his leadership qualities. With Bournemouth finishing midtable this season, a move to Celtic will surely be a step ahead for the player.
Phil Jagielka (Everton):
This option for Celtic is because of his experience in that position. The 34-year-old English international is nearing the end of his career in the Premier League but his enormous experience could help Celtic immensely against the European heavyweights in the Champions League. Jagielka has played at the top most level and his three goals from the back this season indicate that his scoring boots are yet not rusty. If Rodgers can use him well, he could be a vital player for the next two years for Celtic.
