The resignation of Neil Lennon as the Celtic box has led to a mixed reaction from the fans. He emulated the success of Brendan Rodgers in a period when Rangers were regaining their lost status but, at the same time, failed to deliver this term across all competitions.
The show, however, must go on, and the Hoops are weighing up options for the summer window to bolster themselves in several areas. They were reportedly (Sky Sports) keeping close tabs on Hibernian left-back Josh Doig, but a potential contract extension (as claimed by the Edinburgh Evening News) might jeopardise any immediate move for the highly-rated teenager.
The 18-year-old Scottish sensation is enjoying a breakthrough campaign under Jack Ross with 23 appearances already. Not only has he scored once and registered three assists [stats via Transfermarket], exhibiting his ability to make marauding runs from the wide, but he also performed his duties at the back by tracking back and doing recoveries to deny counter-attacks.
Why Celtic Should Rope In Doig
Celtic, meanwhile, have seen Greg Taylor occupying the left-back role in recent weeks prior to his injury against Ross County. Diego Laxalt was roped in on loan from A.C. Milan but has failed to impress enough to secure a permanent transfer. Boli Bolingoli-Mbombo was shipped to İstanbul Başakşehir on loan after failing to meet the Glasgow giants’ expectations and is unlikely to reclaim his place even if he returns to Parkhead once the season gets over.
He could not make his mark in Turkey due to lack of form and fitness concerns, and the Bhoys, thus, need to think beyond their current options to find a worthy successor of Kieran Tierney, who left for Arsenal a couple of summers ago.
Why It’s Not Going To Be Straightforward For The Hoops
Hibs, known as notorious negotiators, had issues in the recent past regarding the transfer of John McGinn. The Scotsman eventually joined Aston Villa despite strong Celtic rumours, and the resurgence of the Edinburgh hotshots might make it trickier for the reigning champions to tempt the youngster. His current contract at Easter Road expires in the summer of 2023, and a new deal on top of the existing one would see Doig put out of Celtic’s reach for the time being.
His valuation would increase significantly in a year if the upsurge continues over the next few months, and the interest from Chelsea and Arsenal might complicate things further in the forthcoming future.
