Celtic are being linked with a surprise move for former Rangers midfielder Joey Barton this summer. According to the latest odds released by the United Kingdom bookmakers, the Hoops are in the running to make a swoop for the English midfielder in what could be an eye-catching move for the Glaswegian giants. Bet Victor has priced the reigning Scottish Premiership champions at 20/1 to sign the ex-Premier League player this summer.
Brendan Rodgers’ team are the massive outsiders behind Derby County, who are currently the favourites to sign the Englishman in the off-season and are priced at 8/1. Aston Villa, Cardiff City, Queens Park Rangers, Fleetwood Town and Notts County are all priced at 10/1 to land the player’s signature this summer.
Barton is serving his 13-month ban from football at the moment after his recent betting antics. The 35-year-old was released by the Gers just two months into his contract due to a training ground bust-up. He has built a reputation of catching the headlines but for mostly the wrong reasons which is why it will be shocking if the Hoops decide to secure his services.
The Hoops are currently leading the Scottish Premiership by a staggering 13 points after playing 33 league matches so far in this campaign. However, they had a poor showing in European football this term which is why it is necessary for Brendan Rodgers to recruit well in the summer.
The addition of Barton will undoubtedly bolster Rodgers’ midfield options in the new campaign but the risk of signing him is not worth the reward. It is no secret that the English midfield has a wealth of experience of playing at the top level. However, his attitude off the pitch could disrupt Celtic’s performances on the pitch which is why they should not go for the player. The Glaswegian outfit has the likes of Scott Brown, Kieran Tierney, Tom Rogic, Charly Musonda and Stuart Armstrong vying for a place in Rodgers’ senior team this season.
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Hence, the arrival of a new midfielder will definitely add more competition for places in their squad. However, they should not sign Barton and instead, look for alternative options in the summer transfer market. At 35, Barton is in the twilight of his career and would not be guaranteed a starting place in Rodgers’ first-team. It remains to be seen what lies ahead in the future of Barton and whether the bookies are right in making Celtic, an outsider to seal a move for the English midfielder in the near future.
