It has become crystal clear, especially over the past few weeks, that Celtic need to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window. Over their past five games in the league, Brendan Rodgers' side have dropped 8 points. The run of results mean that the Rangers will take the lead in the Premiership if they can win their games in hand. Also, Philippe Clement's team have the chance to win the first trophy of the season, when they take on Aberdeen in the Scottish League Cup final.
There are a number of positions where Celtic need to improve moving forward. One of them is believed to be left-back.
Greg Taylor has failed to rediscover the form which he showed under the management of Ange Postecoglou. On the other hand, Alexandro Bernabei has never managed to match expectations since arriving in the summer of 2022 from Lanus for a transfer fee believed to be around £3.75 million.
Thus, Celtic could do with another left-back. And as reported by the Scottish Daily Mail [16/12 print edition] (via 67 Hail Hail), a £4 million deal with Estoril for Tiago Araujo is ‘likely’ to happen in January.
Celtic now likely to sign £4 million defender in January
Araujo came through the youth ranks at Benfica but was never able to make it at the senior level for the club. He ended up joining Estoril in the summer of 2022 and has developed into a highly-rated left-back in the Portuguese top flight there.
Celtic have already signed a few Benfica youth standouts in recent years. Jota was brought in in 2021 and became the club's 'Superstar from Portugal'. Paulo Bernardo is currently on loan at Parkhead.
That being said, Aruajo would represent another 'project' signing for Celtic. He has impressed for Estoril so far but does not have a ton of experience at the senior level.