Celtic's first signing of the summer is starting to become clearer as they look to catch up with their rivals across the division. The Bhoys have made a slow start to the window, yet to make any additions.
Martin O'Neill's delayed full-time appointment likely didn't help, but the Hoops have remained silent on the transfer front even after confirming the veteran boss will be staying on.
Fans have been growing frustrated in the absence of news, particularly after last summer's poor recruitment, which certainly played a part in the slow start the team endured, going on to lose two manager as a consequence.
Saracchi could be first in
A familiar face could wind up being Celtic's first signing of the summer. Marcelo Saracchi, who spent the second half of the season on loan at Parkhead from Boca Juniors now looks likely to sign permanently.
According to the Daily Record, the Bhoys are ready to finalise a deal to keep Saracchi, and it's likely the deal's value will be around £2million. Boca appear likely to do a deal for the Uruguayan, who has been with the Argentine club since 2023.
The left-back 19 league appearances for Celtic last season, scoring once and assisting twice from full-back, although many of his outings were from the bench.
From Celtic's point of view, £2million is a wise investment to add cover and competition for Kieran Tierney, who has had plenty of injury struggles in the past and may struggle to handle two games per week should the Hoops qualify for the Champions League.
O'Neill described Saracchi as a 'special character' during the title celebrations, so it's clear he values the player's presence around the changing room, as well as his ability on the pitch.
O'Neill is big on dressing room chemistry and having the right characters, so there the signing would be logical based on his previous comment.
At 28 years of age, Saracchi is likely in for a two-year deal, or a three-year at the most. It will be interesting to see whether he can manage to displace Tierney next season, given he would have a full pre-season at the club should the deal go through.
Now with experience of the league under his belt, it is set up to be an intriguing battle for the starting spot on the left. Saracchi is said to be very much on board with the deal, already giving his blessing as talks kick off.
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