According to the latest reports from the Mirror as cited by the Daily Record, Celtic are interested in signing Chelsea’s defensive ace Fikayo Tomori. The centre back is part of Derby County’s side on loan, and the Englishman has played a massive role for his team in getting them to the Wembley for the playoff finals.
The reports mention that the Rams themselves are keen on signing Tomori permanently. The 21-year-old has made an incredible 54 appearances for Derby this season, and the young defender has been the mainstay at the back for them. Derby could very well sign the player if they get promoted to the Premier League otherwise a loss could mean that they could lose out on the player.
Why Celtic need a centre back?
Therefore if you are a Celtic fan, then you know which team to back in the playoff finals if you want Tomori coming in at Parkhead. The Bhoys will need to add a reliable and robust centre back after the departure of Dedryck Boyata. Filip Benkovic’s situation is uncertain, but Brendan Rodgers has indicated that he might send the Croatian on loan again.
Celtic meanwhile have done well with Jozo Simunovic and Kristoffer Ajer at the back, and it is likely that the duo would continue as the first choice pairing for the next season. However, it could all depend on which manager takes up the mantle at Celtic Park.
Should Celtic go for Tomori?
It hasn’t been mentioned in the report whether the Hoops would be looking to sign the defender permanently or on loan. In any case, the Hoops should look to pull off a move for him in the summer. Tomori has made just one appearance for Chelsea so far, but he has had decent loan spells before. However, at Pride Park, the centre back has proved himself and shown the talent he possesses.
Tomori showcases decent pace for a defender, and he has that physical side to his game, which is necessary to thrive in the Scottish Premiership. However, it’s his decision making and reading of the game, which makes him stand out. Often inexperienced defender goes into rash challenges and commits themselves into tackles. But Tomori has already shown that he has a mature head on his shoulders and that is the reason why Lampard has persisted with him week in week out.
The player has his contract at Chelsea up until 2021, and the Rams will be in the driving seat to sign him if they make it to the Premier League.
