The 11pm deadline to register players for the second qualifying round of the Champions League has just passed with Celtic choosing not to add any new signings to the squad.
Manager Brendan Rodgers has spoken in the last few days of his desire to add one more quality signing for the upcoming Champions League campaign but has indicated that he is in no rush.
Celtic have already signed both Jonny Hayes and and Kundai Benyu from Aberdeen and Ipswich respectively, however Rodgers has reiterated that he requires one more creative midfielder before his summer shopping spree is over. Several names have been linked to the hoops this summer.
Most recently rumors surrounding highly rated Belgian winger Charly Musonda have been circling although they seem to have been hushed in recent days as the Chelsea players brother took to Instagram to pour cold water on a potential switch to the Scottish champions.
Where should we be strengthening?
As the old saying goes “if its not broke, don’t fix it” and when a club has a season as successful as Celtic did last year, It seems wise for Rodgers to not want to upset the apple-cart too much. This is not to say however that if a good player becomes available we should just ignore him. The only places I feel that we should focus on strengthening are up front to take pressure off Dembele and Griffiths and in central defense.
The need to strengthen the center of defense has stepped up a gear in recent days after stand out defender Dedryck Boyata limped off in preseason against Slavia Prague. This will come as a significant blow to Rodgers as the the Belgian center back’s dramatic transformation in form under the Irish man has seen him become an ever-present at the back alongside Jozo Simunovic.
Celtic will no doubt look to Erik Sviatchenko while Boyata regains his fitness, Although if the Dane or his central defensive partner Simunovic where to pick up an injury Celtic could be in trouble. Rodgers could be forced to turn to youth in the shape of Jamie McCart and Anthony Ralston. The two youngsters have impressed when given their chance although they are still very much a work in progress.
Will he take his chance?
One player whom I very much look forward to seeing get more game time this year is Eboue Kouassi.
The Ivorian has yet to make his mark at the hoops since arriving in January. This is down mostly to injury and the great form of players ahead of him. Brendan Rodgers seems to be a big fan of the 19 year old so he is sure to get his chance at some stage this year.
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