Celtic’s work in the transfer market is beginning to hot up in recent weeks, with Brendan Rodgers’ promise to “freshen up” his squad beginning to come to the fore.
The return of Scotland international Kieran Tierney was sealed last month, while ex-Celtic academy product Ross Doohan also arrived on a free transfer from Aberdeen. The arrival of £1.2million ‘bargain’ Benjamin Nygren from FC Nordsjælland saw the champions open up the cheque book for the first time this summer - though it is not expected to be the last time they dip into the pot. Youngster Callum Osmand has also arrived following the expiry of his contract at Fulham.
Elsewhere, links to Royal Antwerp winger Michel-Ange Balikwisha continue to rumble on, while Celtic continue to look for strikers as they aim to add to their striking options. Cameron Carter-Vickers was linked with a £20million move to Sunderland earlier in the window, though these rumours have died down, but Nicolas Kuhn looks set to depart Parkhead this month after reports claimed Celtic had agreed a fee of £16.5million with Italian side Como.
With so the rumours continuing to float around, Celtic’s squad could have a completely new look when the season gets underway on August 3 against St Mirren.
Here, The Scotsman consider how Celtic’s dream starting XI would look if the latest rumours are true - though, that can never be guaranteed, as we know!
9. RW: Benjamin Nygren
The Swedish international joined the club for a bargain £1.2million last week, and looks like an ideal ready-made replacement for Nicolas Kuhn, who has one foot out of the door. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
10. LW: Daizen Maeda
The Japanese talisman proved he could be dangerous through the middle or off the left last season. However, Maeda is clearly more suited to a wing role due to his pace and directness. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
11. ST: Giuseppe Ambrosino
Celtic are clearly in the market for a new central striker, and are reported to have enquired about a loan deal for the Napoli and Italy Under 21 international. With long-term target Matias Kvistgaarden set to join Norwich City, a loan for Ambrosino would make sense. | JOE KLAMAR Photo: JOE KLAMAR