Just In: 7 Celtic transfer headlines as Chris Mepham interest… Read More
7 Celtic transfer headlines as Chris Mepham interest… Read More
Celtic have not made any official loan approach for Bournemouth’s Chris Mepham, despite recent rumors linking the 26-year-old defender to a potential move to the Glasgow club. Mepham, who has expressed a desire for a fresh challenge this season, has attracted interest from several clubs, including Premier League sides. A few months ago, Celtic were mentioned as one of the interested parties, with a reported price tag of £8 million attached to the Welshman. However, according to Football Scotland, no formal approach has been made by Celtic, and the club could now face stiff competition from others vying for his signature.
Celtic’s focus in the transfer market appears to be shifting towards strengthening their midfield, with Brendan Rodgers possibly needing at least two new midfielders. This is due in part to the potential departure of Matt O’Riley, who is reportedly on the radar of Brighton & Hove Albion. Brighton is said to be preparing a bid that could exceed £25 million, which would be a record fee for the Seagulls. If O’Riley does leave, Celtic will need to find a suitable replacement quickly.
One of the players on Celtic’s shortlist for midfield reinforcement is Lausanne-Sport’s Alvyn Sanches. The 20-year-old Swiss midfielder has an asking price of around £4.5 million, a figure that aligns more closely with Celtic’s budget than the £10 million fee they would need to pay for Augsburg’s Arne Engels. Engels is another name under consideration, particularly as an attacking midfield option, but Sanches could represent a more cost-effective solution.
Meanwhile, in defense, Swedish center-back Gustaf Lagerbielke looks set to leave Celtic on loan. Fussball Transfers has reported that Lagerbielke is on the verge of joining Dutch club Heerenveen after missing out on a move to Italian side Lecce earlier this year. The loan deal would provide the young defender with much-needed playing time and experience in a competitive league.
Celtic’s transfer activities are also being monitored closely by clubs from the English Championship. Leicester City, recently relegated from the Premier League, are reportedly planning to test Celtic’s resolve with a bid for Japanese midfielder Reo Hatate. However, sources suggest that Brendan Rodgers is unlikely to allow Hatate to leave, as the midfielder is considered a key player for the upcoming season. Rodgers is determined to keep hold of his most important players as he looks to build a squad capable of competing both domestically and in Europe.
In addition to potential arrivals and departures, Celtic are also set to allow some of their younger players to go out on loan. One such player is left-back Matthew Anderson. The 20-year-old has attracted interest from League One side Reading, who are keen to secure his services on a temporary basis. Anderson, who has yet to break into the first team at Celtic Park, would benefit from regular playing time in England’s third tier, and a loan move to Reading could provide him with the platform he needs to continue his development.
As the summer transfer window progresses, Celtic’s transfer strategy will likely continue to evolve. With a mixture of outgoing and incoming moves on the horizon, the club will need to strike a balance between strengthening their squad and managing their budget. The potential departures of key players like Matt O’Riley could force Celtic to accelerate their pursuit of replacements, while the competition for targets such as Chris Mepham means the club will need to act swiftly to avoid missing out on their preferred signings.
Ultimately, Brendan Rodgers will be looking to ensure that Celtic are in the best possible shape to challenge for silverware on all fronts this season. Whether through signings, loan deals, or retaining key players, the Hoops will need to be strategic in their approach to the remainder of the transfer window.
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