According to the latest reports from the Scottish Sun, Celtic had sent scouts to watch Rosenborg’s left-back Birger Meling in action last Wednesday in their 2-0 defeat against Dinamo Zagreb. The Hoops have been linked with the Norwegian fullback for the past few weeks, and various rumours have done the rounds regarding his transfer.
Celtic and their hunt for new signings
Celtic’s links with Scottish international Greg Taylor has intensified in the last few days so it remains to be seen how keen the Hoops would be to sign Meling as both of them are left-backs. The Scottish giants must know the qualities of Meling very well as they have squared up against each other in the last few seasons. Meling even managed to score one goal against the Bhoys.
Former Celtic striker and TV Pundit Chris Sutton last week claimed that the Hoops are close to signing Meling. So it is tough to say which news and rumours to trust at the moment. It is clear though that Celtic need two or three more players before the transfer window closes as they need to add more depth and competition for places in the fullback areas.
Boli Bolingoli-Mbombo is currently the only left-back option at the club, and even he has looked vulnerable at the back. Celtic lost the services of Kieran Tierney and Emilio Izaguirre this summer, and it was always expected of the club to go after another left-back.
Is Meling a good option?
The ten times Norwegian international made 30 appearances in all competitions last season for Rosenborg and came up with two goals and three assists. Meling’s major strengths are his pace and energy, and he can whip in some delightful crosses from the left flank. He is a proper attack-minded fullback, and when required, he has filled in as a left midfielder as well.
The fullback is comfortable with the ball at his feet, and he can carry the ball from the back. The 24-year-old can hold his own at the back as well as he provides a reasonable work rate. However, the physicality of the Premiership might trouble him slightly. But, he has the experience of playing at the big stages before so that should also be a big plus for Celtic.
There is no doubt to us that he would be a decent bet. However, the fans shouldn’t expect him to perform at Tierney’s level straight away, and they might have to be a bit patient with the new signings to come good.
