Celtic fans were understandably left surprised to see Gustaf Lagerbielke line up for IF Elfsborg in their Allsvenskan game against Hammarby. Rumours have suggested that a deal has been agreed with the Hoops and a medical is set to take place next week. Under those circumstances, players do not feature in order to avoid any potential injury. The Swedish centre-back’s presence could not guide his side to victory though, as they ended up losing the game by a 1-0 scoreline.
Celtic have recently seen Starfelt complete a move to Celta Vigo of La Liga. Thus, they are in need of a new centre-back. And it looks like Lagerbielke is the player picked to fill the void in the heart of the defence.
Of course, a move is not over the line yet. But it looks like it is only a matter of time, even judging by Lagerbielke’s own comments.
As reported by Aftonbladet, when asked if this was his last game in IF Elfsborg, Lagerbielke replied:
"“Maybe. You don’t want to say anything until something is signed, but it may very well be that way. I don’t really have a clue about it. I have tried to focus on the match as much as possible.”"
Lagerbielke appears to hint at Celtic transfer
It would be a surprise if Lagerbielke is not a Celtic player by this time next week. The club were handed another blow at centre-back this weekend.
Cameron Carter-Vickers appeared to pick up a knock and was substituted off at half-time in the game against Aberdeen. Initial suggestions seem to suggest that it is not a serious issue but the extent of it is not clearly known yet.
It is also worth remembering that Carter-Vickers returned to action only recently. He underwent surgery towards the end of the previous campaign and did not take part in the last few league games as well as the Scottish Cup final.
When fully fit, Carter-Vickers is expected to hold onto his position as a regular starter. The likes of Maik Nawrocki, Lagerbielke and others could end up competing for the other starting spot.