Celtic have been heavily involved with player loans over the years, both in and out. But it might be time that a new strategy is put in place to make the process more efficient.
In recent years, loans have been a great way for the club to bring in new talent. It has allowed them to have a closer look at players with great potential and check their suitability to Scottish football, like Odsonne Edouard for example. We’ve also seen players arrive in need of game time despite a permanent move being unlikely. Shane Duffy is a recent example of that approach.
Similarly, with a large squad, some players won’t get game time at Parkhead and a loan out is a great way for them to get some much needed experience and develop. The likes of Callum McGregor going to Notts County and Ryan Christie’s spell at Aberdeen show how that can be beneficial.
But then there are also other loan moves, where players are sent out to clubs who could end up signing them on permanent deals if they manage to impress there.
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Time for change in Celtic’s loan strategy?
For the Hoops, loans will undoubtedly play a part this summer as well, especially with such a huge transformation needed. But there needs to be a better strategy on who arrives. In recent times, there have been a lot of players who have arrived on loan but failed to make an impact.
The club also need to make loan deals where there is the potential of a signing at the end of it. Otherwise, there are huge gaps left behind when two or three players move back at the same time. This season can prove to be a good example of that.
It is also important to send the youngsters to clubs where they will get the best chance to develop and be ready to contribute to the Celtic first-team when they eventually return at the end of the season.