Despite having one of the best seasons in their club history, Scottish giants Celtic face uncertainty this summer as top European giants keep an eye on their top talents. Brendan Rodgers face an uphill task in holding on to their big names, as well as oversee the addition of required reinforcements to boost their Champions League chances.
Celtic had a terrible European campaign last term, as they finished last in the group stage facing the likes of Manchester City, Barcelona and Borussia Monchengladbach. Although the Irish boss would hope for a better draw this time, he will have to prepare for the worst too.
The Hoops are well ahead of everyone in the Scottish Premiership and would hardly face any challenge in the coming few seasons if they keep evolving. The European campaign, on the other hand, could be tricky. Unlike some European clubs, Rodgers doesn’t have unlimited resources in his hand and would opt for wise buys.
Here are 3 players they could sign to bring the balance to the side-
Ryan Kent- Moussa Dembele doesn’t remain the only big name in danger of departing this summer. Their other star player, Leigh Griffith, has also turned heads with two out-worldly freekicks in World Cup qualifiers against England and could be lured away this summer itself.
Rodgers would keep their replacements ready and this player could come in for cheap and with some brilliant potential. The boss knows the 20-year-old from his Liverpool days and is well aware of his abilities. The Reds academy product has been an important player for Championship side Barnsley last term showing maturity in the attack.
Joshua Brenet- Defence would be a huge problem for Celtic unless addressed properly next season. While the existing bunch look sufficient for the domestic campaign, they were completely outplayed by big sides in the Champions League. Rodgers have a reliable option in Mikael Lustig but doesn’t have an equally good back-up in Cristian Gamboa.
The Costa Rican has failed to make any impression whatsoever. Celtic are linked with a move for PSV Eindhoven’s Joshua Brenet. The right-back is a rising star in the Eredivisie and with Champions League on the platter, he is a likely arrival.
Hasan Ali Kaldirim- Celtic have a long-term target in this Turkish international. The Hoops have tried to sign him thrice now since last winter but a deal just isn’t happening. At 27, the left-back is immensely versatile in the defensive third. He can play on the left flank as well as a centre-half as and when needed.
His time with Fenerbahce is already up and a move this summer is imminent. He could be a cheap buy for Rodgers and given his experience at the back, he would be a huge help in the Champions League.
