According to the latest reports from the Daily Record, Celtic are being linked with a move for Azerbaijan’s defensive ace Bahlul Mustafazada. The 22-year-old is expected to have a summer trial at Celtic, and if he goes on to impress the coaches and Celtic’s decision makers, he can get a contract with the Glaswegian giants.
Mustafazada is going to be a free agent in a few months as his contract with Gabala FC is set to expire soon. The defender has made 20 appearances in Azerbaijan’s top division this season, and he has been winning rave reviews for his performances.
Why Celtic need a defender?
Celtic are set to lose the services of Dedryck Boyata and Filip Benkovic in the summer. The duo played an essential role for the Hoops when both of them were fit and available. Celtic will be left with Jozo Simunovic, Kristoffer Ajer and Jack Hendry as their only centre back options, so it is imperative for the club to add depth and competition for places.
Where will Mustafazada fit in?
Well, he’s a centre back, and that is where the Hoops need to add cover. The 22-year-old can even play as a defensive midfielder when required, so that showcases that he is good with the ball at his feet.
The defender has represented his u-21 national side ten times. He has even been selected for the senior team, so he is known as a prominent and upcoming talent in his homeland.
Challenges for the defender?
Mustafazada is yet to play football outside of his home country so adapting to a new and tougher league will be a big challenge for him. The Scottish division is known for its physically demanding playing style, and it remains to be seen whether the 22-year-old would be able to adapt to the new challenges.
The defender is still an unknown quantity, and his signing wouldn’t bring the fans to their feet. However, if he can turn out to be a top defender, then it would be a smart piece of business by the club as they can get him on a free transfer. Celtic are known for picking up talents from across the globe, and quite a few of them have come good over the years. Mustafazada will try his best to impress at Parkhead as he could get the most significant break of his career if the Hoops go on to offer him a contract in the summer.
