While Celtic have made quite a few signings already in the summer transfer window, it is clear that they still need to bring in several players as soon as possible.
The Hoops suffered a 6-2 defeat at the hands of West Ham United today in a pre-season friendly. And while it is important not to overreact to a result in a friendly game, it is also important to use these games to assess the squad.
Ange Postecoglou did start the game with pretty much the strongest starting XI available at the moment and the defensive side of things remain a worry for the Hoops. Of course, the arrival of Carl Starfelt and the return of Christopher Jullien in the future should be a boost to the side, but even then, they need to strengthen the backline.
It is perhaps at right-back that reinforcements are needed most urgently. There is a massive lack of depth in the position, with Anthony Ralston being the only recognised right-back in the squad at the moment.
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Celtic make €2.5 million offer for Aurelio Buta
It should not come as a surprise that the Hoops have been linked with several right-backs in recent months, with Royal Antwerp’s Buta being one of them.
As tweeted out by journalist Ekrem Konur, Celtic have made a €2.5 million offer for Buta and Ange Postecoglou wants the transfer to be completed as soon as possible. But Royal Antwerp are looking for a €3.5 million transfer fee.
Coming through the Benfica youth system, the 24-year-old has represented Portugal at multiple youth levels and according to stats from Transfermarkt, he has made 107 appearances for Royal Antwerp till now.
He is a versatile player, capable of playing throughout the right flank. He was not heavily involved last season but had a very impressive 2019/20 campaign before that. The potential is clearly there when it comes to Buta. Now, it remains to be seen if the Hoops can get a deal over the line for him.