Celtic linked with 14-goal Aston Villa winger

Walsall v Aston Villa - Pre-Season Friendly
Walsall v Aston Villa - Pre-Season Friendly | Fantasista/GettyImages

If there is one position that Celtic will look to strengthen this January, it is expected to be left winger. Luis Palma does not seem to be a part of Brendan Rodgers' plans anymore. Even with both James Forrest and Nicolas Kuhn out injured at the weekend, the Honduran international was not handed a start.

That just goes on to show his place in the pecking order right now. Palma has been linked with a move to the MLS in recent weeks and it would come as no surprise if he did end up leaving next month in search of first-team football.

On the other hand, Celtic have been linked with a few wingers recently. Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Bazoumana Toure appear to be on their radars. Jota has been suggested as a possible option as well as it looks like the Portuguese winger could be on the move again after joining Rennes in the summer. His proven record at Parkhead means that those return rumours are always going to persist.

Some rumours online have also linked Celtic with a move for Louie Barry. The Aston Villa winger has had a great first half of the season with Stockport County.

Celtic linked with 14-goal Aston Villa winger

In 21 League One appearances so far this season, Barry has scored 14 goals and provided 3 assists. Those are excellent numbers for a winger.

Of course, many would point out that they have come in the English third division. But Barry has proven pedigree at the youth levels as well.

He was part of FC Barcelona's youth system before joining Aston Villa. At the developmental levels, he was an absolute standout as well and has scored in his only appearance for the senior team so far. So, if Celtic did sign the 21-year-old, it would have to be viewed as a major coup.