Celtic have got a title race on their hands after the Old Firm derby defeat at the end of the last year. However, many consider them still to be favourites for the title but for that the Hoops need to make some significant reinforcements in the ongoing month. A dud summer transfer window allowed Rangers to close in the gap and the Gers have been active once again in the transfer window.
The Hoops have been primarily linked with four players as of now. We try to analyse what each signing can bring in.
Timothy Weah
The Paris Saint Germain forward is considered to be the next big thing in football, and at the tender age of 18, he has got a senior team appearance for the French Heavyweights. However, it’s clear that he would struggle for game time with them and a loan move (The Express) is very much on the cards.
Pros
An exciting forward and can play anywhere across the final third. The American international has searing pace to burn and is a genuine threat when he starts up front.
Cons
Not proven yet at the senior level. Definitely on the lighter side and can struggle with the physicality of the Scottish league.
Vakoun Issouf Bayo
The 21-year-old striker is banging goals for fun in the Slovakian League and has racked up 18 goals in 23 appearances to go with seven assists.
Pros
In great form. Has decent pace and has that strength and physicality to his game which should stand him in good stead in the Scottish League. Is just 21, so he is yet to hit his peak and could be a long-term success story at the Park Head.
Cons
Untested in a tougher league. Celtic have to fight off (The Scottish Sun) competition from Rapid Wien and Parma for his signature.
Oliver Burke
The £15m winger from West Bromwich Albion has struggled to get going in the Championship, and the Baggies can look to send him on a loan spell this month.
Pros
Has some serious ‘x-factor’ and is a maverick down the wings. At just 21, has represented Scotland and his pace can leave a lot of defenders on the back side. Is strong on the ball as well.
Cons
Something must be wrong with him as the winger has managed just 40 odd minutes of football in the Championship this season. Predominantly a right winger, Celtic don’t really need one as Rodgers has James Forrest at his disposal.
Timothy Castagne
The Atlanta right back is seemingly unhappy (Daily Record) with the playing time he is getting with the Serie A outfit.
Pros
Going to be a significant upgrade over Mikael Lustig. Already represented one of the best national teams at the moment, i.e. Belgium. Strong offensively as well as defensively.
Cons
Not going to come in cheap and some reports (The Scottish Sun) say that the 23-year-old can cost as much as £10m. Clubs like Lazio also interested (Corriere Dello Sport). The player wishes to move to either the Premier League or the Bundesliga.
