More quality players for Celtic is the need of the hour. It has been like that since the summer signings failed to make an impact. Recently, we have had captain Callum McGregor joining in with manager Brendan Rodgers to make the same call. The January transfer window is being viewed as the big hope. But there could be some disappointment ahead too.
It is safe to say that the summer signings have not delivered since arriving, other than Luis Palma. The team hasn’t improved after key departures such as Jota and Carl Starfelt. And of course, injuries to the likes of Liel Abada and Reo Hatate amongst others haven’t helped.
There are many views on what positions need strengthening in January. In general, it almost always includes bringing in a new goalkeeper. Joe Hart has been a tower of strength at times since arriving in 2021 but has struggled more recently. Sooner or later, the Hoops will need to bring in a long-term number one.
Other than a new goalkeeper, Celtic might need to strengthen at left-back, in midfield and upfront as well. Of course, achieving all that won't be easy, especially in the middle of the season.
Celtic fans won’t be happy with January transfer update
You can’t always sign a Hatate or Matt O’Riley out of the blue. The summer window ought to be the real opportunity to strengthen significantly. But expectations for new signings next month remain high. But as reported by TBR Football, Mark Guidi said on The Go Radio Football Show:
"I think the goalkeeper position needs to be looked at, but I don’t think it’s a priority for January.
“If somebody becomes available who can be their goalie for the next four seasons then yeah, go and do the deal.
“But if it’s a difference between spending £6 million on a goalie or spending £6 million on a striker or midfielder they would go and get those other guys before they replace a Joe Hart.
“So I would I would knock that one right away.
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That will disappoint many Celtic fans who are unhappy with the recent run of results. But in reality, it does make sense for such a specialist position.
Hart may be making a few mistakes here and there, but he is the most experienced player at the club and very capable of helping McGregor in the dressing room and on the pitch in a leadership role. Waiting till the summer to replace him might be a better idea.