5 Celtic transfer headlines on new left-back link

5 Celtic transfer headlines on new left-back link, target bombed by club and O’Riley price raised…Full Story 👇

With just two weeks left in the transfer window, Celtic may find themselves active in the market as they prepare for the upcoming season, including a challenging Champions League campaign in the new league format. So far, the club has signed a few key players, including loanees Paulo Bernardo and Adam Idah, as well as goalkeepers Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo. However, there is still a pressing need for reinforcements, especially in positions like left-back, center-back, and striker. The uncertain future of midfielder Matt O’Riley further adds to the potential need for a new midfield signing.

Owen Wijndal: A Potential Left-Back Solution

Celtic’s search for a new left-back has led them to Ajax’s Owen Wijndal. The 24-year-old, who has spent time on loan at Royal Antwerp, is reportedly being eyed by Celtic to provide competition for Greg Taylor. According to Sky Sports, an enquiry has already been made for Wijndal, who could be a crucial addition to Brendan Rodgers’ squad. Ajax is open to offers for the Dutch international, with other clubs like Werder Bremen also showing interest. Adding Wijndal to the squad could bolster Celtic’s defensive options as they prepare for a demanding season.

Tanner Tessmann: A Midfield Target Under Pressure

Celtic’s pursuit of Tanner Tessmann has gained momentum amid reports that the American midfielder has been sidelined by his current club, Venezia. Tessmann, who was a standout performer in Serie B last season, was on the verge of joining Inter Milan before the deal fell through. Venezia’s general director, Filippo Antonelli, confirmed that Tessmann is currently out of the club’s plans, stating, “It’s been a difficult week, try to understand me. I’m sorry above all for the player, for the situation he’s put himself in. At the moment, he’s out of the list of players available for [coach Eusebio] Di Francesco, but it’s his choice. It doesn’t depend on us.” This situation has made the 22-year-old an attractive option for Celtic, who could use his energy and dynamism in midfield.

Alvyn Sanches: A Rising Star on Celtic’s Radar

Swiss midfielder Alvyn Sanches has emerged as a potential replacement for Matt O’Riley should the latter leave Celtic this summer. Former Celtic center-back Ramon Vega has expressed his support for the club’s interest in Sanches, describing him as a “great talent” with significant potential resale value. Vega believes that Sanches could follow in O’Riley’s footsteps, potentially becoming a £20-£25 million player within a few years if he performs well at Celtic.

“Everybody is talking about Sanches in Switzerland,” Vega said, emphasizing the midfielder’s technical skills and tenacity. Sanches has already played over 100 games for Lausanne, showcasing his maturity and readiness for a move to a bigger stage. Vega also highlighted that Celtic’s player-trading model, which focuses on developing and selling players for profit, aligns perfectly with the signing of Sanches. He believes that Brendan Rodgers is the right manager to help Sanches reach his full potential.

Matt O’Riley: Price Tag Raised Amid Transfer Interest

Matt O’Riley’s future at Celtic remains uncertain, with Serie A side Atalanta persistently pursuing the Danish midfielder. However, Celtic has reportedly increased their asking price for O’Riley to €30 million (£25 million) plus €5 million (£4 million) in add-ons after rejecting five previous bids from Atalanta. The Italian club’s latest offer was €27 million (£23 million), but they are expected to return with an improved bid. O’Riley’s departure would be a significant loss for Celtic, but it could also provide the funds needed to secure a high-quality replacement like Alvyn Sanches.

Mikey Johnston: A Potential Departure on the Horizon

Mikey Johnston, who spent last season on loan at West Brom, could be on his way out of Celtic this summer. Johnston, who made his debut under Brendan Rodgers at the age of 18, has worked hard during pre-season to put himself in a strong position. However, Rodgers has acknowledged that the winger may be seeking more regular playing time, and with interest from other clubs, a move could be on the cards.

Rodgers stated, “I’m open at the moment in terms of where things are at. I gave Mikey his debut back when he was 18 and played him. So, we’ve got a good relationship and we talk openly. I think he’s at a stage, Mikey, where he’ll probably want to play more. But he’s worked hard over pre-season, put himself in a really good position. Some clubs have shown interest in him, but we’ll see what happens over the next couple of weeks.”

As the transfer window approaches its final days, Celtic’s management will need to make strategic decisions to strengthen the squad while balancing potential departures. Whether it’s securing a new left-back, reinforcing the midfield, or resolving the futures of key players like O’Riley and Johnston, the next few weeks could prove pivotal in shaping Celtic’s season.