Ever since Kieran Tierney departed for Arsenal in 2019, the Celtic left-back berth has been a consistent worry for, firstly Neil Lennon, and now Ange Postecoglou. The squad boasts several options; however injuries, form, and a lack of starter quality in depth have resulted in a solution never really materialising for the Hoops.
Former Kilmarnock left-back Greg Taylor has had moments of inspiration, but a shoulder injury sustained back in September has ruled him out of contention for several months now, although as reported by 67 Hail Hail, the Scotland international was pictured taking part in full training this week.
Adam Montgomery seized his first-team opportunity early on in the season, but a knock picked up in October ruled him out for several matches; and he has since been unable to force his way back into the starting XI. Boli Bongoli looked at one stage to be knocking on the door again, but regular chances have not come for him.
And what about Liam Scales? The versatile Irish defender could slot in, but is still a little untested as we move towards a critical juncture of the season. Josip Juranovic has deputised well at left-back in the interim, but the fact that Postecoglou feels compelled to play the right-sided Croatian defender down the left further highlights the current issue. So, who could the Hoops swoop for in January?
Aaron Hickey, a former Celtic youngster in demand
A player consistently linked with the club, the Glasgow-born full-back majorly impressed at Hearts and secured a huge move to Serie A mainstays Bologna last year.
Since then, he has enjoyed a meteoric rise, with a string of impressive performances, playing a big part in Bologna’s climb to 8th in the Serie A table, level on points with a struggling Juventus side.
Hickey has no shortage of suitors, with West Ham United and Burnley believed to be interested. The names of AC Milan and Napoli have been linked with him as well.
Celtic were believed to be interested last summer, but the Italian club’s asking price believed to be around £8 million was steep to say the least. Hickey’s transfer value has only travelled in one trajectory since then.