Celtic make long-awaited announcement as another signing complete

Celtic are expected to make a few signings between now and the end of the summer transfer window. Not only do the Hoops need to find a replacement for Matt O'Riley, who has left for Brighton & Hove Albion, but they also must strengthen in quite a few positions across the pitch. It is not ideal that they have left things for the last minute once again. The swift approach shown by the club during Ange Postecoglou's time as manager seems like a thing of the past already.

One position where Celtic needed to strengthen is left-back. Fortunately, they have done exactly that, albeit on a temporary basis.

As reported by the club's official website, Celtic have signed 20-year-old Barcelona left-back, Alex Valle. It is a season-long loan deal.

Valle spent the previous season out on loan at Levante. He also featured quite a bit for FC Barcelona in pre-season but was clearly not going to get a lot of minutes for Hansi Flick's side. So, a spell at Celtic might be good for his development.

Celtic make long-awaited announcement as another signing complete

Valle will be competing for the starting left-back spot with Greg Taylor and also allow the Scottish international some rest when needed. He has been the club's undisputed starter on the left side of defence for many seasons now.

Of course, Valle is only at Celtic on loan but that does not mean that a permanent move could not transpire in the future. Just look at the signing of Adam Idah and Paulo Bernardo this summer.

If Valle ends up impressing on loan at Celtic Park, there is every chance that the Scottish champions will try to sign him permanently next summer. There is no point thinking that far ahead already though. The focus has to be on the here and now.