Latest reports from the MLS website the Athletic, written by seasoned journalist Paul Tenorio indicates that Andrew Gutman could sign for Celtic this month and the fullback is currently mulling over an offer from the Hoops.
Gutman is highly rated in the American ‘soccer’ circuit, and he was recently the recipient of the Hermann Trophy, which is awarded each year to the top player in college soccer. The fullback also has several deals from American clubs on his table, and it remains to be seen what decision the 22-year-old would take.
However, it’s surprising to see that Celtic have come in the picture for the fullback as not too long ago, Gutman was on trial with Rangers, and Steven Gerrard himself had himself confirmed that. He was quoted as saying (Daily Record),”We have a couple of trialists from the US who are looking for the next challenge in their career. I know one of them and played against him in the MLS – Matt Polster, who played for Chicago Fire and who I know is a good player and Andrew Gutman, who’s one from the college system and is very highly thought of.”
Daily Record further went on to report that the Gers had offered both of them a contract and it was believed that the duo wanted to take some time to come to a final decision. Amidst all this, it seems like Celtic have sneaked ahead in the picture for Gutman as reports from America suggest that the fullback could join the Hoops.
It remains to be seen whether Gutman would be able to cut the mustard at the top level as he is just coming out of the college system now. It is likely that he would be seen as a long term prospect at the club and Celtic can definitely do with a left back who can cover for Kieran Tierney.
Honduran international Emilio Izaguirre has often been slated for his performances when he gets to start ahead of Tierney, and we wouldn’t be wrong in saying that most of the fans consider him as a liability. The Hoops had to use Callum McGregor as their left back in the Old Firm derby as Tierney wasn’t 100 per cent and that showed that even the manager didn’t trust Izaguirre to start in such a big game.
Gutman seems to be highly rated as he had already impressed Rangers on his trial and now Celtic can pull off a deal for him this month. It remains to be seen which side the 22-year-old chooses, but wherever he goes, it would definitely make this transfer window more interesting. All in all, a decent signing for Celtic if Rodgers can pull this one off.
