Celtic were recently linked with Azerbaijan’s defensive ace Bahlul Mustafazada. The 22-year-old is set to have a trial soon at Parkhead, and if he manages to impress at the club, then he could be offered a contract in the summer. Mustafazada recently opened up about his chances of playing for Celtic and admitted that he would love to establish himself at the club.
What did the 22-year-old say?
He was quoted as saying (Evening Times), ”I don’t want to comment on the situation at the moment, but of course, I would want to play for a club like Celtic. If a contract proposal happened then I would certainly jump at it. ‘I’m out of contract at the end of the season, but at the moment I am fighting to try and ensure Gabala get into Europe.”
Why are Celtic after a defender?
It is no surprise to see Celtic eyeing a move for defenders already. The Bhoys are destined to lose the services of Filip Benkovic and Dedryck Boyata in the upcoming summer transfer window.
When fit, both the players played a crucial role this season for the club. Neil Lennon needs to find a replacement or two for his outgoing players.
Kristoffer Ajer and Jozo Simunovic have shown impressive signs already, and if the Bhoys don’t sign any established names, then these two are likely to continue as the first choice centre back pairing for the next season as well.
What does Mustafazada add to the table?
The defender currently plies his trade for Gabala FC which is a top-flight club in Azerbaijan. The 22-year-old hasn’t got the experience of playing outside of his homeland, but he is seen as a big talent for the future. He has represented his country’s u-21 side ten times and has even been named for the senior team.
The fact that he could be available on a free transfer makes him a no-risk signing for the Hoops if the defender manages to impress the coaches at Parkhead. There is no doubt that adapting to a new country and league would be a big challenge for him.
The Premiership is known for its physically demanding playing style, and Mustafazada needs to have that strength and robustness to thrive in this league. The defender is known to be a decent ball playing defender as he can even play as a defensive midfielder when required. It remains to be seen whether he would be able to impress during his trial at Celtic Park.
