Celtic find themselves in the hunt for another domestic clean sweep under Brendan Rodgers, but the club already have one eye on what will be a potentially busy summer that could see movement in both directions.
Celtic’s hunger for silverware won’t slow summer transfer plans
Planting their flag in the sand, Celtic are firmly in front of everyone else in the Scottish Premiership table and require three more wins to mathematically secure a fourth successive league title following last weekend’s events.
While the Bhoys dismantled St Mirren in Paisley, struggling Rangers lost out at home to Motherwell, widening the gap at the summit to 16 points.
Brendan Rodgers has already claimed the Premier Sports Cup and could secure a treble if his side can successfully defend their Scottish Cup, so there is no surprise supporters already have one eye on the summer transfer window.
Previewing potential activity in Glasgow’s east end, Michael Stewart believes Celtic will look to strike a permanent deal for Jeffrey Schlupp following his excellent form since joining on loan from Crystal Palace.
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The Ghana international is set to be a free agent at the end of the season and may be a viable competitor to push Kieran Tierney, who will arrive on a pre-contract from Arsenal.
Greg Taylor hasn’t renewed terms at Parkhead and would be the obvious asset to make way. However, there is still plenty of on-field work to be done before addressing the left-hand side of defence.
Nonetheless, the situation in question does serve as a reminder that squad cycles do come to an end at some point. With that in mind, Celtic could also be set for alterations in the engine room.
Celtic could sign Lennon Miller if Reo Hatate departs Parkhead
According to The Daily Record, Celtic are confident they will strike a deal for Motherwell midfielder Lennon Miller and believe the off-season may be the perfect time to strike for the talent, who is one of Scotland’s hottest properties on the market.
The outlet claim that Reo Hatate may be the most likely departure to create room for the 18-year-old to claim a spot in the Hoops’ starting line-up. Having spent three and a half years in Glasgow, the Suzuka-born man could depart for a new challenge once the campaign comes to a close.
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Reo Hatate’s season in numbers – Scottish Premiership |
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Goals |
6 |
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Assists |
3 |
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Chances created |
30 |
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Pass accuracy |
81.9% |
|
Duels won |
76 |
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Lennon Miller’s season in numbers – Scottish Premiership |
|
|
Goals |
2 |
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Assists |
6 |
|
Chances created |
42 |
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Pass accuracy |
72.3% |
|
Duels won |
128 |
Last summer, Celtic knocked back a £10 million bid for the Japan international from France, and any exit would likely see a sum surpassing that mark make its way into the Parkhead coffers.
Labelled a “standout” by Barry Ferguson, Miller is three off the 70-appearance mark for the Steelmen despite only turning 18 last August. The Scotland Under-21 international may also be a contender to earn senior honours for his country ahead of their Nations League playoff double-header against Greece later in the month.
Celtic always have one eye on the future, and they won’t want to miss out on a rising star who is gaining considerable recognition for his all-action displays in the engine room.
