Celtic are now being linked with a move for an Ivorian midfielder as they look to step up their summer recruitment. The Bhoys are now up and running after announcing the £5.5million signing of Qarabag striker Camilo Duran.
The forward adds much-needed quality and depth to a virtually empty striker department, although Kelechi Iheanacho could yet return after being officially released at the end of last month.
But even outside the striker position, there is plenty of work to do, and the Bhoys are likely to add to the holding midfield position.
Celtic now considering Ligue 2 midfielder
According to Foot Mercato. Reims midfielder Mory Gbane is being considered by the Hoops as they search for holding midfield depth, well aware that Callum McGregor is getting no younger.
Reims are said to be willing to do a deal if a significant offer comes in this summer, and Transfermarkt value the midfielder at around £3.5million.
Gbane actually has two Ivory Coast appearances to his name, but he is no longer part of the international picture. He has been impressing for Reims, though, making 30 league appearances last season.
He is 25 years of age, and his current contract runs until 2029, so it's likely Reims will ask for more than his Transfermarkt value this summer. Reims only bought him last year, and that was for around £4.5million. His value has increased since then, too.
But Celtic have the cash, especially with Arne Engels expected to leave for between £20-£25million, and the Bhoys will likely have to sign a couple of midfielders to make sure they are well-equipped in the absence of Engels.
Celtic hoping to add new recruits for pre-season
The Hoops are now in pre-season, playing their first game last week when they drew to Shelbourne in Ireland. They are now in Portugal, having jumped on the plane to the Iberian nation for the next leg of their summer preparation.
The Hoops face a tough test next week when they take on Sporting CP in the Algarve, and O'Neill is hoping to add new recruits to his squad during this summer phase to get players bedded in nicely ahead of the new season.
Duran has already joined up with Celtic in Portugal, but he arrived after the trip to Ireland.
O'Neill on Shelbourne draw
Speaking about Celtic's draw with Shelbourne, O'Neill said: "Naturally, we changed the side around at half time. So lots of boys got 45 minutes.
“The 45 minutes were important for us. Some of the very young lads who’ve only joined in with us for the last week or so for training, I think there’ll be a nervousness there. But it’s just a matter of overcoming that, getting on with it, feeling as if you belong here.
“I thought Shelbourne played really well, and it was a tough old game for us. It’s just exactly what we needed in all honesty. They’re in the course of the season, they’re strong, they’re robust and they’re a fine side. I just think that we can pick up things from that. It’s our opening game and there’s a long season ahead of us."
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