Well, it looks as though there are signs of life in the Celtic recruitment team. Although recruitment might be a bit generous, the three new contracts just announced are perhaps more retention than recruitment. But that is just as important and is still progress. Despite some fans' frustrations and concerns, there are plenty of positives behind the deals.
In the last couple of days, we’ve had the news that James Forrest has signed a new one-year deal. He’s shown he can still make an impact, creating and finishing goal chances too. He’s been joined in the news by Liam Scales and Luke McCowan.
McCowan has now also extended his stay. A new contract runs to the summer of 2028. Scales has been given a longer deal, through to the summer of 2030. In both cases, there’s an option for an additional year.
Three new contracts are a positive move by Celtic
Some fans are frustrated that it’s more of the same. All three players have had their critics this season. Perhaps slightly less so with Forrest, but they are there all the same. It’s not new quality into the team, which remains badly needed. But it is three very decent squad players. And three winners, which is also important.
The coming summer should be a huge transition at the club. A new manager, and perhaps a change to the playing style. We should see a lot of exits; most of January’s signings ought to be first away. But there are plenty of others needing a move too.
The three contracts just announced are a positive move in several ways. Firstly, it’s early; no waiting for a new boss to arrive or to see what else happens in terms of player movement. Maybe it sends signals that a new manager has been sounded out. Maybe that's too advanced thinking at this stage.
Contract deals add stability at Celtic
Secondly, whatever your view on quality, these three deals help reduce the turnover and changes in the squad a little. They add some stability in what is hoped to be quite a transformation coming up. That's going to be critical as a new boss steps in and needs to act quickly with potential European qualifiers fast approaching.
The heavy criticism of previous transfer windows has been deserved. It included a lot of hesitancy and indecision. Let's take this as a positive start and hope it’s a sign of more positive news to come.
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