Celtic-linked defender could be set to join Rangers

Celtic have already strengthened their defence recently by signing Japanese centre-back, Yuki Kobayashi, and versatile Canadian defender, Alistair Johnston, who can play as a right-back as well as a centre-back. On the other hand, their defence could be weakened by the potential departure of Josip Juranovic after the World Cup. It remains to be seen what the future holds for the Croatian.

Following the arrival of Kobayashi, the Hoops have five centre-backs on their roster. They already had Cameron Carter-Vickers, Stephen Welsh, Carl Starfelt and Moritz Jenz, who is on loan from Lorient and has played his part till now.

But that has not stopped Celtic from being linked with another centre-back in the form of Ryan Porteous, who is set to leave Hibernian, either at the end of this season when his contract runs out or in January.

Celtic are rumoured to have an interest in the player but it looks like he could be headed towards Ibrox instead. As reported by The Scottish Sun, while speaking on Clyde Super Scoreboard, Jim Duffy interrupted a caller called Davie who wanted the Hoops to make a move for Porteous and said:

"“Not to throw cold water on Davie’s suggestion (Porteous joining Celtic) because I agree with it.“But I have heard that there is a little bit of a suggestion that he may be going across the road to their greatest rivals.“So, I have heard that, whether there’s that much in it but that’s something that’s in the air on the football grapevine should we say.”"

Celtic linked player could be on his way to Ibrox to join Rangers instead

There is no doubt that Porteous is a decent player. He has performed well for both Hibernian and for the Scotland national team in recent times. And with him potentially being available on a free transfer, it is not hard to see why it might be tempting to make a move for him. But the question is, do Celtic even need him?

There is a chance that Jenz could head back to Lorient after the season while Welsh could benefit from a spell out on loan.

A lot will depend on how Kobayashi adjusts to the Scottish game. If the Japanese defender shines, Celtic have more than enough options at centre-back.