If reports from Uruguay (as cited by The Daily Record) are believed to be true, Celtic are in talks with Nacional over a summer move for Agustin Dos Santos. The young sensation has a contract till December 2027, but the champions of Scotland are also in conversation with the player’s agent, as they are keen to secure his services.
The 18-year-old Uruguay youth international progressed through Nacional’s academy ranks and eventually made four senior appearances last season for his boyhood club. Dos Santos is currently enjoying his breakout campaign, having featured 14 times so far this term across competitions [stats via Transfermarket].
The emerging playmaker belongs to a famous football family, with his father, Jonathan, the former Mexico international, representing America in Liga MX. The 36-year-old midfield ace represented Barcelona, Villarreal and LA Galaxy before joining the Eagles in 2021. Agustin’s uncle, Giovani, is also a renowned figure who had a similar club career path, with more than 100 appearances for El Tri.
Why He Would Offer In Celtic Midfield
The teenager has already grabbed attention for his calmness while holding the ball deep in midfield and carrying it forward with sheer composure. His subtle through-balls and around-the-corner passes demonstrate the playmaking traits he holds as a ‘number 10’.
Although his lack of physicality might trouble him in attuning to the aggression and demands of the Scottish game, Celtic are considering him as a long-term project player rather than an immediate first-team regular in the middle of the park. He would be handed ample time to settle into new surroundings, but the Hoops, despite closing in on a domestic double, require significant reinforcements across the pitch.
Why A Bit-part Role Should Help Him Flourish
Skipper Callum McGregor is still going strong at 33. But the club do not have an outright ‘number 6’ to challenge and cover the Scotsman at the base of their midfield setup. His experience would be key amid an anticipated squad overhaul and managerial change, with interim chief Martin O’Neill set to depart following the weekend’s Scottish Cup final against Dunfermline Athletic F.C.
Dos Santos could flourish as McGregor’s understudy, with a view to replacing him in the long run. The growing interest in Arne Engels and Benjamin Nygren south of the border could also present him with an opportunity to showcase his flair as a ‘number 8’. While the Celts must bring in like-for-like successors for their star midfielders, having the teenage prodigy in their ranks aligns with their strategy of building for the future.
