Celtic have quite a few players in the squad right now who are not expected to play much football moving forward. As a result, it would make sense for all parties involved for them to head for the Parkhead exit door this summer, either on loan or on a permanent basis. One player who appears to fall under that category is Stephen Welsh.
Welsh came through the youth ranks at Celtic and has been in and around the senior team for the past three seasons or so. In that time, he has played a bit of football as well but has never been able to establish himself as a starter in the heart of defence.
Welsh already appeared to be the last-choice centre-back in the squad and might have been pushed further down the pecking order following the arrival of Maik Nawrocki from Legia Warsaw. As a result, it might be the right time to leave for the Scottish defender.
There is some positive news in that regard. As reported by the Daily Record [27/07 print edition, page 55] (via 67 Hail Hail), Italian clubs are expected to follow up on their long-standing interest in Welsh.
Offers expected for Celtic player following rule change
The Italian FA have decided to relax the rules when it comes to signing United Kingdom and Swiss citizens for Serie A clubs. That is effectively getting rid of the two-man quota which was in place for each team.
Such a rule change would only help Welsh get a move to the Serie A this summer. Now, it remains to be seen what offers come in for him.
Serie A has become an attractive league for Scottish players. We have seen the likes of Aaron Hickey, Josh Doig and Lewis Ferguson head to Italy. Do not be surprised to see Welsh join that list.