One can only hope that the Champions League qualification exit at the hands of Kairat proves to be a wake-up call for Celtic. Unfortunately, this is not the first time that something like this has happened. In fact, before getting a guaranteed spot three seasons in a row, the Hoops had failed to make the competition for more than half a decade, and that had not had much of an effect on their transfer strategy. So, how much will this fresh disappointment change things?
Probably not a lot. But whatever may be the case, we must look forward. And what Celtic need to do is immediately add some much needed quality to Brendan Rodgers' squad.
They looked tired and devoid of ideas in both legs against Kairat. We are in late August. That just goes to show the state of this squad. Fresh and quality additions need to be made and as soon as possible.
As reported by Expressen, Celtic have made a bid for Sebastian Tounekti, with the clubs currently in negotiations regarding the transfer fee. Nothing is clear or signed. The offer is €3 million, but Hammarby requires at least double that to consider a deal.
Celtic submit bid for €6m international player out of nowhere
This continues a worrying trend of putting in offers significantly lower than what clubs want to part ways with their players. We all know how the Jakob Breum and Louis Munteanu transfer sagas turned out. There is very little reason to think that this will be any different unless Celtic are ready to significantly raise their offer.
Tounekti is a 23-year-old winger. He has already played for quite a few clubs and was not a prolific presence at any of those places. He has made a couple of appearances for Tunisia. So, Celtic's interest in him will certainly raise some doubts about whether he could succeed at Parkhead.
Celtic need to bring in quality right now, not just make moves because there is pressure to do so. Of course, it would not be right to count someone like Tounekti out without ever seeing him kick a ball in a green-and-white jersey.