A recent report of the Daily Record has claimed Aberdeen’s interest in Celtic target Declan Gallagher. The same outlet reported the Hoops’ willingness to bring in the Motherwell skipper (back in January) and his decision to turn down a move to MLS refueled speculations one month later.
The 30-year-old centre-half had a brief stint at Parkhead during his teenage days. But he could not make it to their senior ranks and eventually progressed through the lower divisions of the Scottish pyramid before gaining a top-flight promotion with Livingston three years back. He was then roped in by Motherwell next summer on a Bosman transfer and the time has come for yet another switch as he opted not to extend his stay at Fir Park beyond the ongoing term.
Celtic’s Ongoing Crisis In Deep Defence
Celtic, meanwhile, had a catastrophe in the defensive third throughout the season. Shane Duffy was roped in on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion, but the Irishman failed miserably to justify his reputation. Christopher Jullien underwent an injury-ravaged campaign and the club was forced to promote young Stephen Welsh in the heart of the defence. He, alongside Kristoffer Ajer, restored the stability to some extent, but the Norwegian might part ways in the summer window amid interest from an array of European heavyweights.
While Ajer is set to enter the final year of his Celtic contract, the Bhoys should look to offload and make a monetary profit over losing him for nothing next year. Nir Bitton, too, might return to his homeland and the crisis at the back would only worsen the situation unless they consider proactive measures.
Why The Hoops Must Step Up The Chase
The Dons have already roped in Hoops skipper Scott Brown in a player-manager role and is now eyeing another shrewd piece of business by snapping up Gallagher. The big centre-half has earned 7 senior Scotland caps so far and is set to bolster any backline due to his physicality, leadership traits and profound experience in Scottish football.
Although the centre-back has to prove his worth at the highest level to secure a starting role in Celtic colours, grabbing him for free would be massive to enhance the depth as well as quality in the deep defensive line. His arrival would save a few million pounds in the wake of the pandemic and the Glasgow giants, therefore, must step up the chase and secure his services ahead of Aberdeen.
