According to Fokus, Celtic are interested in securing the services of FC Groningen centre-back Samir Memisevic this summer. The Scottish transfer window is still open, and Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is on the lookout for some defensive reinforcements following the club’s recent struggles at the back which has also seen their UEFA Champions League hopes get dashed.
Samir Memisevic – A Hidden Eredivisie Gem?
The Bosnia-Herzegovina international was born at Tuzla and came through the youth ranks of NK Slaven Zivinice before sealing a move to Sloboda Tuzla in the summer of 2012. After impressing in the second tier of the Bosnian league, he managed to earn a move away to Serbia to ply his trade for Partizan Belgrade’s feeder club, Teleoptik.
The Bosnian defender played in Serbia for a year and a half and also spent some time at FK Bezanija before returning to his homeland to play for Radnik Bijeljina. His rapid rise at the Bosnian top-flight saw him get the captain’s armband and he was soon spotted by FC Groningen scouts. He completed a move to FC Groningen in the summer of 2016.
Since sealing a switch to the Dutch Eredivisie, Memisevic has featured in 60 matches for Groningen and had one goal and one assist to his name in all competitions.
What Will Add To The Hoops Backline?
Memisevic is a commanding presence at both ends of the pitch due to his imposing frame and has a good leap in him which helps him make some crucial clearances with his head. His strength and aggression are on par with the best defenders in the Eredivisie. He is also renowned for making critical interceptions for his side. The Bosnian also has decent pace for a big man and looks composed while in possession of the ball.
However, his passing has a lot of room for improvement which might make it difficult for him to get adjusted to Celtic’s style of play at Parkhead.
Is Memisevic An Ideal Fit For Rodgers’ Style Of Play At Celtic Park?
The 25-year-old will bring a lot of physicality and strength to the Bhoys’ backline, but he would not be a good fit for Rodgers’ system as he lacks the traits to dominate with the ball at his feet. Hence, we can conclude that he is good enough to be a worthy squad option but still does not have enough in his locker to justify a place in Rodgers’ first team.
