There are quite a few positions in the current Celtic squad in need of strengthening heading into the summer transfer window, despite Brendan Rodgers' side being close to winning the domestic treble. They are winless in their last three games against the Rangers, and even the Scottish League Cup final victory came as a result of penalties with the game ending 3-3 after 120 minutes. This is something that the manager needs to rectify.
Celtic have had some defensive difficulties this season. Cameron Carter-Vickers does not seem to have a settled partner at the back.
Auston Trusty was brought in to fill that role in the summer from Sheffield United and given ample chances to nail down his spot in the starting XI. Unfortunately, he was not able to do that and now finds himself behind Liam Scales in the pecking order.
So, do not be surprised if Celtic end up signing another centre-back in the summer, especially with the question marks surrounding the futures of Maik Nawrocki, Stephen Welsh and Gustaf Lagerbielke. Veljko Milosavljevic of Red Star Belgrade has been linked with a move to Parkhead recently. But it looks like he is not planning to leave in the near future.
Celtic handed blow as transfer target confirms plan
As reported by The Celtic Way, Milosavljevic said:
"My role model in football is Virgil van Dijk. He is the best defender.
"I think I have learned so much this season and winning the title with Red Star Belgrade has been a dream for me.
"I played in two Eternal Derbes against Partizan Belgrade too. I'm only 17 and I understand I still have a lot of learning to do.
"I hope to play many more important matches in the future and leave some mark on Red Star before I leave.
"For me, the past six months are the fulfilment of a boyhood dream. As a child, I dreamed of playing for the Red Star first team. I believe in myself and hope to keep learning and improving.
"I take on board a lot of advice from our manager Vladan Milojevic, who is one of the very best coaches of all time in Serbian football."
So, the youngster has made it very clear that he wants to leave a mark at Red Star Belgrade before leaving the club. To be honest, it might be best for him to stay there for a little while.
He is already playing senior level football for them. But there is a very good chance that he could get lost in the shuffle at a club like Celtic. How often have you seen a 17-year-old centre-back get regular playing time with the Hoops?