If a recent report from Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo is believed to be true, Celtic are set to rival the likes of Getafe and Mallorca to secure the services of in-demand Barcelona teenager Mika Marmol. The versatile defender has been labelled as a ‘manager’s dream’ by David Bravo of Barca Universal and the Hoops, thus, must step up the chase if they are desperate to rope in the youngster.
The catastrophe continues at Parkhead though as the talks have broken down with Eddie Howe for the vacant managerial role. Little-known Ange Postecoglou is now under consideration to succeed Neil Lennon in the long run, but the board must keep on pushing for transfer targets to settle things down prior to the upcoming Champions League playoff encounters.
Celtic endured a massive defensive crisis last season, particularly after Christopher Jullien’s season-ending knee injury. Shane Duffy has returned to Brighton & Hove Albion following a dreadful loan, whereas Nir Bitton, who played his part as a makeshift centre-half under Lennon, might return to his homeland Israel amid interest from Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Why The Signing Of Marmol Would Benefit Celtic In The Long Run
The rise of Stephen Welsh is a positive bit of news for the club, however, wantaway Kristoffer Ajer is expected to complete a summer move having been scouted extensively by Newcastle United over the past few months. Sheffield Wednesday prospect Liam Shaw signed a pre-contract in winter, but the 20-year-old has mostly been utilized in central midfield despite his ability to operate as a central defender.
Meanwhile, the Bhoys have decided not to tie down Diego Laxalt on permanent terms after an underwhelming loan stint. The days of Boli Bolingoli-Mbombo are numbered too at Celtic Park and Greg Taylor, therefore, remains the only left-back option for the Glasgow giants. The arrival of Marmol would offer the much-needed cover considering his ability to feature on the left as well as in the heart of the backline.
The 19-year-old has progressed through the youth ranks of La Masia and made 25 appearances this season altogether in the Segunda División B for Barcelona Reserves. Celtic target Mika Marmol has impressed with his pace and marauding runs while playing as a full-back, also his ball-playing ability and passing composure as a centre-back would help him attune to the Hoops’ brand of possession-based football. The likes of Leo Hjelde and Adam Montgomery are making strides through the academy ranks, but the club must restore the stability first in order to attract new names ahead of the upcoming term.
