Can Celtic compete in the Champions League with the current squad? Celtic are bracing for a hectic conclusion to the transfer window as they pursue at least four new signings, hoping to strengthen their squad ahead of a crucial season. Despite a summer of mounting frustrations and criticism from fans, the Hoops’ board is under immense pressure to deliver the reinforcements that manager Brendan Rodgers has been clamouring for.
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Supporters have voiced their discontent, accusing the club’s hierarchy of hoarding funds rather than investing in new talent. Chairman Peter Lawwell faced significant backlash from fans before Celtic’s recent victory over St Mirren, highlighting the growing dissatisfaction with the club's transfer activity—or lack thereof—this summer.
However, there’s renewed hope that the tide is about to turn as Celtic’s coffers are set to be bolstered by the impending sale of Matt O’Riley. The Danish international midfielder is on the brink of completing a record-breaking £30 million move to Brighton, which will see Celtic receive £26 million upfront, with an additional £4 million in potential add-ons. This deal surpasses the previous record held by Kieran Tierney’s £25 million transfer to Arsenal in 2019.
Rodgers, eager to reinvest the O’Riley transfer fee into the squad, is reportedly closing in on his long-standing search for a new left-back. Barcelona’s Alex Valle, a highly-regarded Spanish Under-21 international, is poised to join Celtic on a season-long loan. Valle, who impressed during a loan spell with Levante last season, has been allowed to continue his development in Glasgow, with Celtic covering his £1.3 million wage bill. While there is no option to buy clause included, the deal is seen as a significant coup, with Rodgers playing a crucial role in attracting the young talent to Parkhead.
In addition to Valle, Celtic have set their sights on Augsburg’s Arne Engels, a highly-rated 20-year-old midfielder. The club has already tabled a £6.5 million bid for Engels, but Augsburg is holding out for closer to £10 million. Engels is viewed as a direct replacement for the outgoing O’Riley, and negotiations are ongoing to bring the promising youngster to Scotland.
As the transfer window edges closer to its deadline, Celtic fans will be eagerly watching to see if their club can pull off the signings needed to ensure they remain competitive on both domestic and European fronts. With the clock ticking, the coming days promise to be decisive for the Hoops’ season ahead.
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