There are quite a few positions where Celtic need to strengthen. One position where they might need to do it more urgently than others is left-back. It is undeniable that Greg Taylor's form has dipped this season, following the departure of Ange Postecoglou in the summer. On the other hand, Alexandro Bernabei remains on the periphery of the first-team picture.
There have been suggestions that Celtic are open to transfer or loan offers for Bernabei this January. On the other hand, it would be a surprise if they do not surprise a left-back before this window closes.
The club have been linked with plenty of left-backs in recent months. As reported by 90min last September, Celtic were one of the clubs who checked on Valentin Barco.
Unfortunately, the highly-rated Argentine left-back won't be heading to Parkhead though. According to Brighton & Hove Albion's official website, Barco has joined the club from Boca Juniors on a four-and-a-half-year contract until June 2028.
Brighton & Hove Albion announce signing of Celtic-linked player
While Celtic's recent recruitment has been questionable in recent times, the same cannot be said about Brighton & Hove Albion. In fact, the Seagulls have arguably been the best team in the world in the respect for some time.
They have been successful in identifying players like Moises Caicedo, Evan Ferguson, Kaoru Mitoma and several others, and then developed them into household names in the Premier League. Naturally, expectations are high surrounding Barco and his future in Brighton as well.
Of course, someone like Barco would have been an excellent signing for Celtic. But it was not to be. It remains to be seen who they end up signing at left-back, if they do indeed bring someone in this month. Tiago Aruajo of Estoril is the player who has been most heavily linked with the Hoops lately.