It is no secret that Celtic need to strengthen this summer in the forward areas of the pitch. They have never really replaced Kyogo, who left for Rennes in the winter but already finds himself at Birmingham City. Daizen Maeda impressed when deployed centrally last season but might have to move back to the flank owing to Jota's injury combined with the departures of players like Luis Palma and Nicolas Kuhn.
So, Celtic need to make signings both on the wing and at centre-forward. Naturally, they have been linked with players capable of playing in both positions.
One player they have been linked with for months now is Louie Barry of Aston Villa, going back to the winter transfer window. Back then, he had joined Hull City on loan.
Barry was available this summer as well and it was just last week that Anthony Joseph confirmed that he has had interest from Celtic. Now, the Hoops have missed out on him once again though.
Celtic transfer saga over as official announcement made
The forward will be staying in England. Aston Villa have announced that Barry has joined Sheffield United on a season-long loan.
It is unclear whether there is any obligation or option included in the loan deal. It is worth remembering that it was not too long ago that Barry was on the verge of joining Hull City on a permanent basis but the move collapsed in the final steps.
It remains to be seen how things play out for Barry in Sheffield. On the other hand, Celtic will need to make some additions as soon as possible. The club have only made a couple of signings so far this summer who are expected to come in and immediately become a part of the first-team picture. A lot more is needed.