After a slow start, Celtic are now gathering pace in the January window. They are in talks with several targets, with Aurèle Amenda being the latest name linked over a winter move to Parkhead. According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, the Hoops are preparing a loan bid for the wantaway Eintracht Frankfurt centre-back. However, any potential deal must get approved by sporting director Markus Krösche, who has rejected inquiries from the other suitors.
The 22-year-old Swiss international progressed through the academy ranks of Young Boys before featuring for their reserves in the lower divisions. He eventually secured a first-team status, and his towering presence at the back earned him a €9.50m transfer to the Eagles, effective from the summer of 2024.
But his minutes have been limited in Frankfurt, with Robin Koch, Nnamdi Collins and Arthur Theate ahead of Amenda in the pecking order. So far, the youngster has only featured 25 times in his one-and-a-half-year stint in Germany, and the lack of involvement might jeopardise his place in Murat Yakin’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad. He should explore opportunities elsewhere for regular gametime, and a move to Celtic should fascinate the centre-half, given the Bhoys’ current crisis in the heart of the backline.
Why Celtic Must Bring In Amenda To Fix Their Defensive Crisis
The Celts have lost Cameron Carter-Vickers for the season due to an Achilles injury. No manager relied on Jahmai Simpson-Pusey, who was recalled by Manchester City and sent on loan to FC Koln. Academy prospect Dane Murray looked out of depth, thus leaving Martin O’Neill with Auston Trusty and Liam Scales as the only stable central defensive options.
Meanwhile, Trusty and Scales, both being left-footed, have struggled due to their limitations in passing, imbalance, and pressing vulnerabilities. Amenda, therefore, would grab an immediate starting status for his pace, physicality, and aerial supremacy. He is regarded for his strong tackling traits, ball progression from the deep, and range of passing – something Celtic have lacked since Carter-Vickers’ injury.
O’Neill recalled Stephen Welsh from Motherwell as a temporary solution to their conundrum in deep defence. The Scotsman failed to stake a claim at his boyhood club due to form and fitness woes, but has since revived his career in North Lanarkshire following a summer loan. The Steelmen, jointly with Hearts and Rangers, are so far the least conceding side in the league, and Welsh, a regular at the back, contributed significantly to their resurgence under Jens Berthel Askou.
Nevertheless, O’Neill insisted that the Scot could return to Motherwell before the closure of the transfer window. Amenda’s arrival would restore balance, as well as offer the much-needed depth, quality and balance in their title defence.
