Celtic scouts watch highly-rated English youngster

Celtic’s transfer business is heating up as they are now being linked with a highly-rated and versatile English youngster.

It’s encouraging to see plenty of activity from Celtic on improving the left back position. According to the media, club scouts, along with Nick Hammond, Head of Football Operations, have been to watch another exciting potential signing.

Charlton’s Alfie Doughty is the one attracting interest. Apparently Hammond has followed up a longer term interest in the player by watching him against Swindon this weekend in a Carabao Cup match. The Sun carries the story and tells of the player having an impressive starring role in his side’s 3-1 win.

Doughty is a 20 year old English attacking midfielder. He started last season out on loan at Bromley in the English National League before being recalled in November to help cover for injury problems at the club.

Doughty went on to make 29 Championship appearances for Charlton turning in some impressive performances despite the club’s season ending in relegation. Those appearances were at both left-midfield and left-back, which suggests he could be being considered as cover for Greg Taylor and/or replacement for Boli Bolingoli. It’s perhaps more likely he’s one for the future and would be coming in as back up cover and for future potential given his limited experience.

If his potential is realistic then he’s likely to be a great bargain buy. He is on the final year of his contract with Charlton. Luton Town have offered £400k for him, setting an early marker for price levels. Estimates are that at around £750k Celtic could strike an excellent deal to buy.

Alongside Doughty we know the Hoops have been making offers for Mitchel Bakker at PSG to join on loan. He may be the preferred option to bring in for this season, but at a bargain price Doughty doesn’t have to be an alternative and could be a longer term answer to a difficult position.