Celtic need to strengthen in a number of positions across the pitch. A lot of the focus is on the flanks right now, thanks to the departure of multiple players in that area, including Nicolas Kuhn. But that does not mean that they can neglect other areas of need. Centre-back certainly falls under that category.
Since Carl Starfelt's departure in the summer of 2023 to join Celta Vigo, Celtic have tried to find a partner at the back for Cameron Carter-Vickers. So far, they have not succeeded. Players like Gustaf Lagerbielke, Maik Nawrocki and more have come and gone, failing to replace the Swede.
So, the Hoops need to go out and try to sign another player. And what if he is not only capable of playig in central defence but as a right-back as well, providing extra cover to Bredan Rodgers' squad?
One name we have suggested a few times in the past is Alfie Gilchrist. And it looks like Chelsea have made him available for a very reasonable transfer fee this summer.
Celtic must make move after Chelsea's £5m transfer decision
As reported by Ben Jacobs, Chelsea are looking for around £5m to part ways with Gilchrist. No plans to sanction a loan as it stands. Derby County, Watford, Middlesbrough and Blackburn Rovers have all enquired about the player.
Gilchrist is exactly the type of player that Celtic should be trying to sign this summer. Coming through the youth ranks at Chelsea, he was very highly regarded and it looked like he was set to break into the first-team under the management of Mauricio Pochettino.
Gilchrist is an old school defender and will certainly bring some steel to Celtic's backline. He is someone who easily passes the eye test but the underlying numbers are impressive as well.
Gilchrist made 17 appearances for Chelsea in the 23/24 season. But with the departure of Pochettino and the arrival of Enzo Maresca, things changed. He was sent out on loan to Sheffield United. There, he was able to establish himself as a regular starter until he picked up an injury.
Overall, Gilchrist's time with Sheffield United was great though, as he was a key part of a team that challenged for promotion. He played most of his football at right-back for the Blades but centre-back is considered his best position. Now, it looks like he is set to leave Chelsea on a permanent basis with multiple Championshp clubs after his signature.
Celtic can offer Gilchrist the opportunity to compete for trophies and in Europe though. And if his ultimate goal is to play in the Premier League, top English clubs are almost sure to come calling if he can prove himself in the green-and-white jersey.