According to the latest reports from Daily Record, Celtic have launched an attempt to sign Kilmarnock’s full-back Greg Taylor. They are yet to make a bid for the Scottish defender, but it is being said that the club has got in touch with Kilmarnock. It is believed that the Killie are quoting £3m for their left-back. The Hoops are said to be interested, but they are not keen to go that high with the price. Celtic are expected to make a bid in the next 48 hours.
The same report mentions that the Hoops can involve Jack Hendry in the deal as Kilmarnock are keen to get him on loan. Celtic are likely to bid around £1m including offering players on loan. It remains to be seen now whether both parties will be able to thrash out a deal or not.
Why Celtic need another fullback?
The club lost two left-sided fullbacks this summer as Emilio Izaguirre departed after his contract expired and Arsenal secured the services of Kieran Tierney. Lennon has already spent on former Rapid Wien fullback Boli Bolingoli-Mbombo, but the new signing has looked defensively vulnerable so far.
Moreover, the Bhoys need to add more depth and competition for places in that position, and a left-back should be high on the agenda of the club. The Glaswegian outfit should have gone ahead with the signing much earlier as they were forced to play Callum McGregor at left-back in the all-important Champions League qualifiers tie against Cluj.
Will Taylor be a good bet?
Taylor enjoyed an impressive campaign under Steve Clarke last season as they finished third. The fullback even earned a national team call up not too long ago, and he was an integral member of Kilmarnock’s back four as he made 41 appearances for them last season.
The Scotsman attracted interest from English club Hull City in the transfer market earlier. Taylor is an established player in the Premiership so he can hit the ground running straight away whereas Lennon might have to be a bit patient with Bolingoli.
Taylor is known for his impressive energy and pace down the left, and he can be a reliable option to have at the back. However, the Hoops should have the funds to bring in a more standout option. Taylor would have been a decent backup. However, replacing Tierney isn’t going to be an easy task. Even the fans would be disappointed to see the club signing budget-friendly options instead of aiming higher and bringing a top player.
