Celtic have had some thumping wins off late, and the attacking players are taking away most of the plaudits. But we feel the defensive pair of Dedryck Boyata, and Filip Benkovic also deserves some major credits as both of them have been immaculate together at the back. However, some reports from England isn’t going to suit Celtic well as numerous reports are coming out that Manchester United will likely land Leicester City’s centre-back Harry Maguire in the January transfer window for £60m.
It is being reported that the Red Devils are confident of landing their target. Jose Mourinho has made it clear that his side needs a centre back in the transfer window and after not complying in the summer, it is likely now that the board would fulfil Mourinho’s wishes in January.
In all this, Celtic could turn out to be major losers as if Maguire goes on to join United, Claude Puel will definitely call back Filip Benkovic in the January window. The Croatian centre-back was signed in the summer and was sent on a season-long loan, but the manager has an option to call him back in the winter period.
Benkovic has kept the likes of Kristoffer Ajer, Jozo Simunovic and Jack Hendry on the bench and the Hoops faithful would love to see him stay for the whole season. However, that seems very unlikely especially if Maguire’s deal goes through in January.
The likes of Simunovic and Hendry have been unconvincing in the appearances they have made so far, and Rodgers would have to prepare for life without the 21-year-old centre back who has definitely caught the eye so far in his loan spell.
His tall frame and ability to read the game sets him apart. The Croatian defender is comfortable in spreading the ball from the back, and he has already shown good signs that he is going to be a big hit at Park Head. However, Rodgers should already start thinking of a contingency plan for a defender in January.
Leicester might have thought that their new defender would take time to settle in, but we believe Benkovic is ready to see some action in the Premier League and from the pieces of evidence which one has seen in Celtic colours, we sure think he is going to be a long-term prospect for the Foxes.
There is always the risk of a situation like this arising with a loan player and Rodgers would hope that he can get the most out of him from now until January. Even if Maguire stays on at King Power Stadium, Benkovic could still move back as Wes Morgan hasn’t been at his best. So time for Rodgers and the club faithful to keep their fingers crossed.
