Celtic have been the supreme dominant force in Scottish football over the past decade, but they have stretched the gap significantly in last two years since Brendan Rodgers appointment. The former Liverpool and Swansea City boss is on the verge of scripting history with two back-to-back domestic treble-winning campaigns and has not only utilized his resources expertly but also allowed the youngsters to shine and impress the European heavyweights with their towering performances.
Rodgers, however, is expecting a few departures in summer, which might lead to a squad overhaul. But the Parkhead club has used the loan deals masterfully so far and the gaffer is already eyeing his summer transfer targets that include Liverpool prodigy Rhian Brewster, who is regarded as one of England’s best talents of the next generation.
The 18-year-old striking sensation was acquired by Rodgers from the youth ranks of Chelsea while being in charge of Liverpool and the youngster has lived up to the expectations by earning his country the prestigious FIFA U17 World Cup title held in India last year. Brewster notched up 8 goals that earned him the Golden Boot and Jurgen Klopp, the Reds boss, praised the prodigy for his sheer excellence with club’s U23s.
Injuries, unfortunately, halted his progress and kept him sidelined for months but the teenager will be back in action during club’s pre-season tour and Klopp will monitor him closely, having expressed his desire to promote the youngster with club’s senior squad from next campaign onwards. But the latest reports are suggesting towards the German’s change of mind who is willing to let him leave on loan for more senior minutes and the profile of Celtic must be enticing for both Klopp and the player’s entourage.
The Hoops have a few striking options in their ranks but unsure of Moussa Dembele’s future amidst interest from several English outfits. Odsonne Edouard, the Paris Saint-Germain loanee has impressed in his debut spell and despite his desire to land a permanent move in summer, both the clubs are yet to enter negotiate terms for the 20-year-old French youth international.
Experienced Leigh Griffiths, therefore, remains the only certain name to continue next season but still struggling to return to his full fitness after missing out months of football with a calf strain. The Scotsman will step up his game next term but need company upfront. Brewster seems to be the solution to their striker conundrum right now and the starlet will be determined to make an impression in his maiden spell at a senior level.
