Celtic linked to young Newcastle defender

We’re about 14 days into the January window, and Celtic have brought in just one defender. Marvin Compper came over from Leipzig, but on the plus side, the Hoops have yet to lose any big-name defenders.

The need for more youth at the back-line isn’t a secret anymore. If certain defenders to decide to pack the bags in this window, more players in general will be a necessity especially considering Celtic’s schedule in the second half of the window.

Brendan Rodgers has been surprisingly silent about potential targets, or at the very least, what areas of the pitch he’s looking at the most. The silence hasn’t stopped the publications linking several defenders across Europe to the Glasgow side.

The most recent rumor, and probably the most interesting thus far, is Newcastle youngster Chancel Mbemba. The youngster can’t be happy with his 9 appearances this season, especially since he only made 13 in the last promotion campaign for the London side.

Mbemba’s playing time hasn’t stopped him from putting out some pretty impressive stats. The 23-year-old has notched a goal this season, while putting up a near 2 tackles and interceptions per contest.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – AUGUST 13: Newcastle player Chancel Mbemba in action during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur at St. James Park on August 13, 2017 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) /

Transfermarkt values Mbemba at a low 7 million pounds, so the Celts will likely have to raise that number just a bit in order to win his signature. Plus, the price has to attributed the fact that he has some solid experience in one of Europe’s top leagues.

Also, Soccer Souls goes on to mention that there are some other benefits both on and off the pitch that could really benefit the Bhoys right now, and most importantly, in the future.

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"Mbemba has a contract with Newcastle that runs until the summer of 2020, which does put the Magpies in a stronger negotiating position. However, given the lack of transfer funds for Benitez, a sale could very much be on the cards if Celtic sound out the Premier League side. The former Anderlecht man may not be the most exciting name, but has time and again shown that he has the ability to get the job done in the heart of the defence. His signing could prove to be a shrewd capture for the Hoops."

It’s been a decent window for Rodgers and the rest of Celtic. However, it’s getting to that point in time when negotiating has to happen before it’s too late. It seems that Celtic have a plethora of targets in mind, but action hasn’t been taken that often.

More competition for Mbemba should be expected, but don’t expect Newcastle to budge when the defender is the only real piece of solid talent they can offer in the future for their back-line.

Wait and see for any announcements from the Hoops. More signings should happen soon before the Bhoys head into a rather stiff second-half of the campaign.

Next: Celtic considering a permanent move for Odsonne Edouard

Should Celtic consider trying to bring in Mbemba? How long will it be before the Celts announce any progress on another signing? Let us know in the comments section below.