Celtic were strongly linked with a move for Atalanta’s right back Timothy Castagne in January. Reports even came out that the Hoops had offered the Serie A club €10m for the Belgian international, but even that wasn’t enough in the end to lure the defender. As a result, Celtic went on to sign Jeremy Toljan on loan from Borussia Dortmund who has looked far from impressive.
Recently, Belgian media outlet Het Laatste Nieuws carried an interview of the defender where he established that there were offers for him in the January transfer period.
He also went on to say that playing in the Premier League is his dream next. The right-back said, ”Atalanta suddenly asked for more money (in January). €12m to €15m for a player who had not played ten games at the time. That’s a lot of money.”
“We’ll see. First, finish the season well and then study everything carefully. From the manager to the board. Whether it’s a stable club and who’s playing your position. The Premier League remains my dream competition. But it all depends on which teams want me – I would rather have a top club in Italy than a bottom team from England.”
Why does Celtic need to sign a right back?
As things stand, Celtic are set to lose all their three right backs in the summer. Mikael Lustig, Cristian Gamboa and January signing Jeremy Toljan’s contracts are expiring. Therefore we expect the club to go after a right back. Lustig has played in that position for the most parts this season, but he has been found wanting especially against top teams in Europe. The Swedish defender gets away with his shoddy defending in the Premiership given the way Celtic dominate their game. However, if the Bhoys want to reach the next level, then they need to look for an upgrade.
How Castagne fits the bill?
Castagne is already a four-time Belgian international, and the 23-year-old is a complete package as a right back. He is equally adept at defending as well as bombing forward and given his age; he can be a solid option for Celtic for years to come.
Chances of Celtic signing him?
As of now, we think that Celtic only have a slim chance of luring him to Parkhead. Latest report links him to Italian heavyweight AC Milan. The defender quite evidently prefers a move to the Premier League. Quite a few players from Scotland have gone to play in the Premier League after big performances in the Premiership, so maybe the defender can take that route.
