Celtic’s chase for a defensive midfielder this summer has revolved around Vinicius Souza. The Brazilian is currently with Lommel SK, who are a part of the City Football Group and in the second division of Belgian football right now. He was extremely impressive during his loan spell with KV Mechelen in the top flight though and as a result, has managed to catch the eye of clubs around Europe.
A loan exit is more likely than a permanent one, although rumours have suggested that Lommel SK might be ready to let Souza leave for a transfer fee around €9 million.
Celtic will have their fair share of competition for Souza’s signature though. A number of clubs around Europe are believed to be interested in signing the Brazilian star this summer, including Dutch giants Ajax. But there is some good news from the Hoops.
As tweeted out by Anthony Joseph, City Football Group would prefer that Souza was loaned to Celtic but the decision will be left up to the player and his agent:
UPDATE: Ajax have joined the list of interested clubs for Celtic target Vinicius Souza. @SkySportsNews understands the City Football Group, who own his club Lommel, would prefer that he was loaned to Celtic.
— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) June 17, 2022
But the decision will be left up to the player and his agent. https://t.co/LOOhswTudI
City Football Group hand Souza boost to Celtic
Celtic need a defensive midfielder badly this summer, having seen Nir Bitton, who was the most natural and reliable option there, leave at the end of last season in search of a new challenge. On the other hand, the likes of Ismaila Soro, James McCarthy and Yosuke Ideguchi have all struggled to make their mark in the first-team.
Thus, someone like Souza could prove to be a brilliant signing for Celtic. The Brazilian has shown a lot of potential during his time in Belgium and many believe that he is good enough to play in the Premier League.
The past connection that City Football Group have with Ange Postecoglou and Mark Lawwell, could end up serving the Hoops well in this situation. There have been suggestions though that Souza might have doubts over moving to Scotland.