If a report from The National is believed to be true, Celtic have tabled an offer for Sheffield United star Auston Trusty. But they are not alone in the hunt considering ‘genuine offers’ for the centre-back as revealed by the Blades boss Chris Wilder.
The 26-year-old USMNT international progressed through the academy ranks of Philadelphia Union. He joined their reserve affiliate Bethlehem Steel for first-team football in the second tier of American soccer and eventually returned to his boyhood club in 2016. After two successful years in MLS, the defender plied his trades to Colorado Rapids.
Trusty’s impressive stint earned him a dream transfer to Arsenal in January 2022. He spent the next six months on loan at Rapids before joining Birmingham City in the English Championship for the 2022-23 season. With 48 appearances across competitions, he won the club’s Player of the Season as voted by the supporters.
However, he had no future in North London and was allowed to join newly-promoted Sheffield United last summer for €5.80m. Despite 32 games in the Premier League, Trusty had a nightmare run as his side finished rock-bottom, conceding a record 104 goals. While he has retained his starting status in their bid to reclaim immediate promotion, a transfer north of the border can’t be ruled out given the Hoops’ financial boost following Matt O’Riley’s staggering £30m move to Brighton & Hove Albion.
Why Celtic Are Keen On Trusty
Brendan Rodgers is looking for a left-footed centre-half to challenge, cover and potentially replace Liam Scales in the heart of the backline. They are keen on upgrading certain areas to improve their European form. And Trusty, having enjoyed regular gametime in England, would offer more strength and resilience in deep defence alongside fellow compatriot Cameron Carter-Vickers.
Celtic have parted ways with outcast Gustaf Lagerbielke as the Swedish central defender has joined FC Twente on a season-long loan. They are willing to listen to offers for Maik Nawrocki who is having a hard time with injuries since completing a £4.3m switch from Legia Warsaw a year ago. Although the Scottish champions have booted out KV Mechelen’s loan interest for Stephen Welsh earlier this month, the homegrown centre-back has not managed to cement a first-team role over the years due to form and fitness concerns.
Meanwhile, forgotten Yuki Kobayashi has also left for Portuguese outfit Portimonense. This shows the club’s efforts to reduce the squad size by offloading fringe players and bolstering quality across the pitch with top-notch inclusions.
