City Football Group hand Celtic major transfer boost

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:

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.