Celtic need to strengthen in a number of positions. One of them is a centre-back. They have tried to bring in a partner in the heart of defence for Cameron Carter-Vickers for the past few years, since the exit of Carl Starfelt to join Celta Vigo, but have never succeeded. It remains to be seen if that changes this summer.
Celtic have been linked with a few centre-backs in recent weeks as well. But after it emerged that Lyon had been relegated from Ligue 1 out of nowhere, the situation might have changed for the Hoops and new opportunities might have opened up suddenly.
The very least Celtic should do is try to make a few moves happen. If the decision to relegate Lyon is not overturned, one would expect a number of their players to depart and the club might have little choice but to let them leave for a fraction of their transfer valuation.
67 Hail Hail have come up with a list of three Lyon players that Celtic make a move for. One of the names on that list is that of Moussa Niakhate. He was a regular at the back for the French club last season and made 42 appearances.
Celtic have been tipped to sign €15m centre-back after Lyon's relegation
Niakhate is a 29-year-old centre-back who plays for Senegal at the international level. He has been a rock in the heart of Lyon's defence. Transfermarkt give him a valuation of €15 million.
The fit is exactly right for Celtic. Niakhate is a left-footed centre-back and could slot alongside Carter-Vickers in the defensive duo.
It remains to be seen if Celtic do end up making a move for Niakhate this summer or not. Of course, if Lyon's relegation stands then one would imagine that several other teams, especially in France, would be interested in signing him as well.
Niakhate has a ton of experience. He has played in the Premier League with Nottingham Forest, in the Bundesliga with Mainz 05 and in Ligue 1 with Metz and Lyon. Could he add the Scottish Premiership to that list?
Of course, Lyon have already made it clear that they will appeal against the decision to relegate them to Ligue 2. The move was made due to the club's financial issues in recent times, because on the pitch they have performed, finishing 6th in Ligue 1 last season and also making it to the quarter-final of the Europa League.
If Lyon are able to overturn the decision, then one would imagine that players like Niakhate would stick around. Otherwise, the club would have little choice but to say goodbye to some of their best. If it comes down to it, Celtic should be there, trying to make a few moves happen.