Gustaf Lagerbielke makes superb Celtic claim amid links

Celtic will need to replace Carl Starfelt this summer. The centre-back appears to be on the verge of joining Celta Vigo and an official announcement could be made soon. He has been a regular starter for the Hoops for the past two seasons though and the club will need to bring in someone capable of taking his place in the squad. And it appears that they have another Swedish international in their sights.

Rumours have suggested that Celtic are looking to sign Gustaf Lagerbielke. And there have even been suggestions about a £3 million transfer bid being made.

Lagerbielke currently plays for IF Elfsborg in the Allsvenskan. The club are sitting atop the Swedish league table right now and the centre-back has played his part in making that happen. Could he soon be on the move though?

Lagerbielke appears to be delighted with the rumours linking him with a move to Celtic. As reported by the Daily Record, he told bt.se:

"“It’s very fun first of all. It’s fun when such a big club shows interest. I think all players in the Allsvenskan want to go abroad at some point and test their wings. A big club with so many fans and who played in the Champions League and won titles. It is clear that every player dreams of it. It is an honour to receive that interest.”"

Lagerbielke makes superb Celtic claim amid links

It remains to be seen whether Celtic are able to get a deal over the line for Lagerbielke. On most occasions, when the club are so heavily linked with a player, he ends up at Parkhead.

Lagerbielke is a superb talent without a doubt. He has been on top for IF Elfsborg in recent times and the 23-year-old even made his debut for the Swedish national team earlier this year.

Is he ready to replace someone like Starfelt already? That is an interesting question that will need to be answered.

Of course, Celtic have signed Maik Nawrocki this summer as well and the Polish youth international has shown glimpses of quality already. He started against Ross County on Flag Day and did not look out of place. It is possible that he could be the long-term replacement for Starfelt.