Celtic could sign Real Madrid defender with €30m release clause for free

Celtic's centre-back situation remains an interesting one. They parted ways with a few of them in the summer while signing Auston Trusty from Sheffield United for a transfer fee believed to be in the region of £6 million. Many had predicted the defender to cruise it up in Scotland but start to life in Glasgow has been shaky for him.

It is important to give Trusty some time to adjust to life at Celtic. On the other hand, Stephen Welsh leaving the club seems like only a matter of time.

Welsh has made only one appearance this season, against Falkirk in the League Cup. Otherwise, he has found himself on the bench or in the reserves.

Welsh has been linked with a move away from Celtic for years and it is hard to see how it does not materialise this winter or next summer, considering his lack of playing time. In that scenario, the Hoops would need to sign another centre-back and a very highly-rated one from Real Madrid might be available as a free agent soon.

Celtic could sign Real Madrid defender with €30m release clause for free

Pablo Ramon drew comparisons with Sergio Ramos not too long ago and was tipped to break into the Real Madrid first-team picture back when Zinedine Zidane was the manager. He was known for his leadership, competitiveness, defensive capabilities and ability to carry the ball forward from the back. But those chances never came.

Now, 23 years of age, Ramon has yet to make his senior debut for Real Madrid. And the centre-back, who is believed to have a €30 million release clause, has a contract that runs until next summer.

Ramon spent last season out on loan at Mirandes, where he played regular football. And it has been very common for highly-rated Real Madrid youngsters to fail to get into the first-team.

If Ramon does become available on a free transfer, Celtic should definitely consider a move. He has all the tools to be a very decent centre-back at the senior level.