Latest reports from the Express suggests that Celtic are looking to bolster their defensive line by bringing in Leicester City centre-half Filip Benkovic on loan. The 21-year-old was signed in the ongoing transfer window, but it is likely that he would struggle for game time as the Foxes have the likes of Jonny Evans, Harry Maguire and Wes Morgan as centre-half options. So it makes sense for the player to leave on loan and the Hoops could be an excellent destination for the youngster.
Rodgers’ side has struggled at the back this season in the absence of Dedryck Boyata (the defender is linked with a move away from the club), so one can understand why the manager is keen on adding a centre back in the last few days of the transfer period.
Player Profile:
Full name – Filip Benkovic
Date of birth – 13/7/1997
Born In – Zagreb, Croatia
Height – 6ft4in
Position – Centre Back
Current Club: Leicester City
National team: Croatia
Brief History
Benkovic joined one of Croatia’s biggest club team Dinamo Zagreb when he was 10-year-old in 2008. His rise was meteoric, and he made it to their u-17 side when he was just 14, and from there within two years, he got through to their u-19 team. His physicality and height definitely helped him in moving up the ranks, and by the 2015-16 season, he made it into their senior squad.
He made his debut as an 18-year-old and slowly went on to establish himself in the first team. Benkovic got a taste of Champions League football as well in his first season and looked destined for big things even before he turned 20. The Croatian has represented his national side at various youth levels and is still waiting for a call-up to the senior team which shouldn’t be far away.
Player Strengths
He was fondly called the ‘Big Ben’ by the Zagreb fans and his presence at the back would be intimidating for any striker as he stands at an intimidating 6ft4inches. However, he is not one of those classic big tall no-nonsense defenders as he boasts of a decent pace and acceleration. He is quite comfortable on the ball, and that was one of the reasons why even clubs like Tottenham Hotspur were after his signature. As expected, the defender is strong (Monster would be a better adjective) in the air and a significant threat when he goes up to attack set pieces. He has a knack for scoring goals now and then which is another huge plus.
The Croatian seems mature beyond his years and has an excellent positional sense as well. He also knows when to go into challenges and when to fall back. Benkovic showcases exceptional confidence while on the pitch and seems like he owns the centre-half position. One can say he is a complete modern day centre back.
Player Weaknesses
Benkovic hasn’t played outside of Croatia so adjusting to a new league might take him a little bit of time. He is young so he might be prone to errors but that is just about it as the player doesn’t seem to have any significant weakness to his game.
Celtic are definitely short at the back, and that can be ascertained by the start they have had to their season. Even if they manage to hold on to Boyata, signing Benkovic would bring a lot of depth and quality in the centre-half position. Rodgers should definitely give a green signal to sign this young defender.
Here is a small clip on what the Hoops fans can expect from the Croatian.
https://youtu.be/04Vu73Ln7Qc
