Celtic want to sign former Chelsea player this summer

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 23: A Chelsea FC club badge is seen during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on January 23, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 23: A Chelsea FC club badge is seen during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on January 23, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images)

Celtic have been very smart with their additions during the time of Ange Postecoglou as manager. Their defence did disappoint though, in their 3-0 loss to the Rangers at Ibrox at the weekend. In the grand of scheme of things, the result matters little with the league already in the bag. But still, it is always disappointing to lose a Glasgow Derby.

Admittedly, it was pretty much a second-string backline on the day. Carl Starfelt was the only regular starter. Alexandro Bernabei, Yuki Kobayashi and Anthony Ralston also started.

All three had a lot to prove but could not take their chance, conceding thrice. Many fans feel that the Hoops need to improve their cover at the back. And it looks like a former Chelsea player has caught their eye.

As reported by Sky Sports (via HITC), Celtic are one of the clubs eyeing Xavier Mbuyamba this summer. Ajax, AZ Alkmaar and Watford are also among his admirers.

Celtic want to sign former Chelsea player this summer

Mbuyamba has earned comparisons to Virgil van Dijk for his playing style as well his size. He has spent time at both Barcelona and Chelsea in the past, but failed to make it at either club.

He is finally showing his potential while playing for FC Volendam in the Eredivisie this season. The centre-back has been one of the key reasons why the club look set to avoid relegation and stay up in the Dutch top flight.

Mbuyamba has proven to be a big presence in both boxes for his club, which is understandable considering his physical gifts. At 21 years of age, he also has plenty of room and time to get better. As a result, it is not hard to see why Celtic might hold an interest, especially with Stephen Welsh expected to leave.