According to the latest report from the Scottish Sun, Celtic are tracking Rosenborg’s left-back Birger Meling. He is being considered as a serious option as a possible replacement to Kieran Tierney who went on to join Arsenal this summer.
Former Norwegian footballer and TV Pundit Jesper Mathisen recently talked about the same in a local show. Mathisen said, ”Meling has been hunted a bit by Celtic. He is a player they know well.”
Celtic have played Rosenborg a couple of times in the last few years, and Meling even got himself on the scoresheet once. The 24-year-old is a ten-time Norway international, and he had good outings against Celtic where he played as a left-back.
The defender is reportedly open to a move. Meling’s contract will expire in December next year, and it remains to be seen how much Celtic have to shell out to bring him at Parkhead. Rosenborg rejected an offer from Los Angeles FC for the fullback recently.
Why Celtic need a left-back?
Meling will add more depth, quality and competition for places. The Hoops signed Boli Bolingoli-Mbombo this summer, but the former Rapid Wien fullback has looked vulnerable defensively. So much so that Lennon had to use midfielder Callum McGregor at left-back in the second leg against Cluj as Bolingoli was found out defensively in the first leg.
With Tierney’s departure, Celtic needs to invest in bringing in a left-back who is not only good while going forward but is also defensively solid. Bolingoli at best looks like a backup option at the moment and he might only be used against teams where he might not be tested defensively.
Is Meling a good option?
The Norwegian defender made 30 appearances in all competitions last season and contributed with two goals and three assists. The fullback’s standout asset is his pace, and he can whip in some delicious crosses from the left. He has impressive on the ball qualities, and he can link up play well. Meling has even filled in as a left winger when required. Defensively too, the 24 year is solid, and he is a tough-tackling fullback. Meling is known to be a hard worker, and his profile would suit Celtic well.
The defender gave some trouble to Celtic defence while playing from the left in the past and there is no doubt that he would be a top signing. Meling will have big shoes to fill as he will probably be seen as a replacement for Tierney. However, he has the potential to be a great signing for the Bhoys.
