Signing a striker before the end of the summer transfer window appears to have become the priority for Celtic before deadline day even though reinforcements are needed in several other positions as well. But with Adam Idah also set to leave for Swansea City, if a replacement can be found before that, it is not hard to understand why the Scottish champions might be prioritising a move for a centre-forward before looking towards other areas.
Kasper Dolberg of Anderlecht seems to be the top target for Celtic at this point. But Borussia Monchengladbach appear to have emerged as a potential destination as well, which will be a worry for the Hoops.
Let's see how this situation unfolds over the coming days. With very little time left in the summer transfer window, something needs to happen pretty soon for a move to go through.
If the move for Dolberg does not materialise, one would expect Celtic to look at alternative options. But unfortunately, it looks like one of the strikers they have been linked with in recent months, is headed for the English Championship.
Middlesbrough now close to signing Celtic-linked striker
As reported by The Northern Echo, Middlesbrough are understood to be closing in on the signing of David Strelec. The move has not yet been finalised and minor details are still being resolved, but the English Championship club have made a breakthrough in talks with Slovan Bratislava over the last 36 hours.
Celtic have been linked with Strelec going back to the winter transfer window. There have been some suggestions that they made a failed bid for him as well. There have been some rumours this summer as well, although much less.
Unfortunately, it looks like Strelec is headed to England. And it is not hard to see why, with Middlesbrough sitting atop the Championship table right now.