Celtic set to enter a phase of transition under new boss Ange Postecoglou and according to Australian outlet SBS, the rumours of a summer swoop for Aaron Mooy are gathering pace in Shanghai. The Aussie international left Brighton & Hove Albion for the Chinese Super League a year ago, however, the speculations of a Parkhead move can’t be ruled out just yet following the appointment of his former gaffer.
The 30-year-old midfielder had a brief stint in Scotland with St. Mirren a decade ago. But he flourished his game back in his homeland with Western Sydney Wanderers and Melbourne City before signing for the latter’s sister side Manchester City in the summer of 2016. He was never going to make it to the star-studded City side and was loaned out immediately to Huddersfield Town fighting for promotion under David Wagner.
Mooy made an instant impact with the Terriers and won the Fans’ Player of the Season award after securing Premier League football. He made 129 appearances for the West Yorkshire side (who made the transfer permanent) before plying his trade for Brighton in 2019. But his stay at the south coast was short-lived as the £4m release clause was triggered by Shanghai SIPG.
Why Celtic Must Go For Mooy
The veteran midfield ace has represented the Socceroos in various youth ranks before breaking into the senior scenes in December 2012. He, so far, has earned 43 caps and netted 6 times while operating from the centre of the pitch. Known for his dribbling attribute and down the middle runs, Mooy’s rise to fame under Postecoglou might script a Glasgow reunion.
“He’s a very good coach. The style that he wants to play is the way I like playing as well. I’m happy to be playing under him. He’s intimidating.”
Said the player in 2016 (as quoted by The World Game) when the Hoops chief was still in charge of Australia.
Scott Brown has already joined Aberdeen in a player-coach role and the Hoops, therefore, must opt for experience to take the place of their club legend in due time. Ismaila Soro had his moments last season, but the Ivorian can’t be relied upon week in week out by the manager with Champions League football up for grabs.
Mooy is confident on the ball and loves to carry it forward from the deep to operate in the advanced areas. He, alongside Callum McGregor, would restore stability in the middle of the park and it is to be seen now whether the manager uses his influence to kickstart the reconstruction.
