Just In: Celtic board told they MUST splash cash amid ‘two-way street’ assessment of… Read More.
Celtic board told they MUST splash cash amid ‘two-way street’ assessment of… Read More.
Chris Sutton has emphasized that Celtic must invest significantly in new players, following news that the club’s financial results will exceed expectations. This comes after Celtic announced to the London Stock Exchange that their upcoming financial report will show “significantly higher” funds than previously anticipated. The Scottish champions have consistently generated substantial income from player sales and are expected to release another record-breaking balance sheet in the coming month.
Previously, Celtic had an impressive £67.3 million in the bank, and this figure is now expected to be even higher. Last month, it was reported by Football Scotland that the club’s share price had surged to a 23-year high, further highlighting the financial strength of the Glasgow giants. However, with this financial success comes increased expectations in the transfer market, where fans have grown frustrated with the lack of significant new signings in recent transfer windows.
Sutton, a former Celtic player, has voiced the sentiment of many supporters, insisting that the board must reinvest some of the club’s financial success into strengthening the squad. He expressed in the Daily Record that the club’s financial results should be matched by their activity in the transfer market before the window closes. Sutton argued that with the strong financial position Celtic finds itself in, the board is now obligated to spend money to improve the team.
He pointed out that no football fan would be unhappy to see their club in such a healthy financial state, but when supporters see that there is money available, they naturally expect some of it to be spent on enhancing the team. Sutton described this as a “two-way street,” where fans, who financially support the club, want to see the board reciprocate by investing in the squad to maintain and improve performance.
Celtic, who have a significant amount of cash in reserve and more income expected from their upcoming participation in the Champions League, need to take advantage of their financial position. Sutton emphasized that the fans’ demand for new signings grows with each passing week, and that the club must respond by bringing in quality players. He suggested that the manager is eager for reinforcements, and that new signings could provide a boost to the entire team, enhancing their morale and performance.
One area of particular concern is Celtic’s striking options. Currently, Kyogo Furuhashi is the only recognized striker available, with the club attempting to secure a permanent deal for Adam Idah, who had previously been on loan at the club. Sutton warned that relying solely on Kyogo is a significant risk, especially with the demanding schedule that includes domestic competitions and the Champions League. He pointed out that while Celtic may not have to navigate Champions League qualifiers, they cannot afford to become complacent in domestic competitions by assuming that victories are guaranteed.
Sutton also criticized the decision to let Oh Hyeon-gyu leave without a replacement, describing it as an unnecessary move that has left the squad short of options. He suggested that Celtic’s reluctance to pay over the odds for players might be holding them back, but also acknowledged that there are times when it is necessary to go beyond normal spending limits to secure key signings that can make a difference.
Sutton believes that Celtic’s board must act swiftly to strengthen the squad, especially in attack, where the team is currently vulnerable. With the club’s financial outlook being extremely positive, he argues that there is no excuse for not investing in new players to maintain the club’s dominance in Scottish football and to compete effectively in Europe. Fans are growing increasingly impatient, and the club must respond by making significant signings before the transfer window closes.