With a couple of weeks left in the summer transfer window, it appears that Celtic are about to make a move for a Newcastle United player. Losing Jota to Al-Ittihad was a major blow, but the early switch at least gave time for a quality replacement to be brought in. There is some cover available, but as early games have shown the excitement, skill and trickery of the Portuguese winger is definitely missing.
It would be no surprise if another winger is on Brendan Rodgers’ wish list for this window. And could one from Newcastle United make the switch to Parkhead?
As reported by The Northern Echo, Celtic are ready to make a formal approach for Ryan Fraser. He fell out of favour with Eddie Howe in the second half of last season and his time at St James’ Park is clearly at an end.
Fraser has dropped out of contention to start or even make the bench. In fact, he has slipped down so far that he does not have a squad number this season. An exit is not only likely but almost inevitable.
Celtic ready to make move for Newcastle United player
Fraser has played quite a bit of football for Newcastle United but the last one was way back in October 2022 against Everton. He was on top form before that during his spell at Bournemouth and has represented Scotland on numerous occasions.
Fraser has a deal with Newcastle United until the summer of 2025. But a move away seems the only way forward now.
There is a decent player there in Fraser, but somehow this doesn’t feel like a good fit or move for the Hoops. He would certainly bring experience and some skill to the squad. But his age and profile do not fit with the approach we have seen from the club.
Fraser has been away from playing at the top level for a while now and although still under 30, he seems likely to be past his prime performance levels. It also seems unlikely that the Hoops fans would welcome him as a direct replacement for Jota.