Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic side are set to seal the deal for former Norwich City midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu. The player had become a free agent after his contract with Kilmarnock expired, and the Hoops would announce the signing of the midfielder before the transfer window ends.
The manager expressed his happiness at securing the services of the 31-year-old midfielder. He said,”We were always on the lookout for a really aggressive number eight to play midfield. Youssouf was exceptional last year, he was very keen to come and play at a huge club and fits the profile and has the experience of being up here. All being well, it’ll be a really good move for us.”
Mulumbu- An Experienced Player At The Top Level
Mulumbu even scored against the Hoops last season in February when he helped his side to a surprise 1-0 win over the league champions. The Congolese midfielder started his career with French heavyweights Paris Saint Germain. After not making the cut at the top level there, he found his feet in England and became a regular for West Bromwich Albion where he had spent six seasons with them before moving to Norwich City. Mulumbu has the experience of playing over 200 games in English football (164 of those are in the Premier League), so he seems to be a decent bet for the Hoops.
The midfielder also got a taste of Scottish football last season as he reunited with his former Baggies manager Steve Clarke at Kilmarnock. He made 14 appearances in the league and managed one goal and four assists. Mulumbu was usually there in midfield to keep things tight, so one shouldn’t judge him on his attacking contributions.
What does he bring to the table at Parkhead?
The Hoops fans shouldn’t expect something miraculous or spectacular from their new signing. He would be a decent squad player to have in the ranks at Celtic Park. Given that Mulumbu is coming for free, it’s a low-risk move from Rodgers, and he is going to get plenty of experience from the Congolese star.
Maybe not signing someone like John McGinn pushed the gaffer into making this decision. Mulumbu can be a decent anchor man in midfield and would provide cover for the likes of Scott Brown and Olivier Ntcham. The Bhoys have also made it to the UEFA Europa League main draws so they would have to compete in an extra set of fixtures where squad depth should come in handy.
Some fans might be sceptical of this move as Kilmarnock allowed him to leave after just one season, but we definitely believe he has a lot to offer when he arrives at Celtic Park. Mulumbu is a workhorse in midfield, and he is physically strong enough to take on any challenges which would be thrown at him in the Scottish Premiership. Even when he wouldn’t start, he can come in the last 15-20 minutes to see off the game or protect the lead for his team. His versatility would also be a significant asset as he can play in a box to box role.
All in all, it’s a decent signing. Not every signing needs to catch the eye and be spectacular. Mulumbu would go about his business silently in the middle of the park when he is called upon.
