It would be an understatement to say that Celtic fans are not happy after how the Hoops handled the summer transfer window, particularly the end of it, leaving Brendan Rodgers' squad short of options in a number of positions and costing them a place in the UEFA Champions League. It remains to be seen if any changes are made in the aftermath of it or if things continue as they have for so many years now.
Of course, it is also the time to look at creative ways to strengthen the squad, as much as possible. And one way to do that is by looking at the free agent market.
Celtic have already dipped into it once by bringing in Kelechi Iheanacho. Of course, that is not a headline signing in 2025 by any means but at least it is another experienced option for Rodgers to rely on. Hopefully, the Nigerian striker will prove a lot of doubters wrong and have a successful stint in Glasgow.
Another former Premier League player who has become a free agent very recently is Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. He left Besiktas towards the end of last month after mutually agreeing to end his contract with the Turkish club.
Celtic tipped to sign former Arsenal and Liverpool player for free
In a list article of free agents that Celtic could target from the Daily Record, one of the names is that of Oxlade-Chamberlain. Will such a move make them stronger?
Or will it be just another move that Celtic end up making because they need to do something right now? Well, we shall find out soon.
That being said, the former Liverpool and Arsenal man is extremely versatile and can play in a lot of positions. That could help this team, which is short of options in a number of areas.
Of course, we all know about Oxlade-Chamberlain's ability to play on the wings and in central midfield. But last season for Besiktas, he played quite often as a defensive midfielder as well. That kind of versatility and experience can be an asset to Celtic, especially as he is available as a free agent.
Many would argue that his best days are behind him and he has had his injury problems lately. That being said, you do not play top-level Premier League football for Arsenal and Liverpool for over a decade if you do not have undeniable quality.
Not many would have expected Aaron Mooy to come in from Shanghai Port in the final season of his career and bench Matt O'Riley, but that is exactly what he did. Considering the situation Celtic find themselves in, signing Oxlade-Chamberlain might be a risk worth taking.