Celtic and Rangers both linked with 'new Maldini’

Celtic need to strengthen in a number of positions across the pitch if they are to improve in the second half of the season. Most fans would want to see the club sign a new left-back. Greg Taylor has been decent in recent weeks but is yet to match the form he showed under the management of Ange Postecoglou. On the other hand, Alexandro Bernabei does not seem to have much of a role at all in Brendan Rodgers' plans.

Signing another 'project' player might not be the best idea though. Instead, Celtic need to bring in someone who is established and ready to immediately challenge for a place in the starting XI.

Recently, they have been rumoured with an interest in one of Eredivisie's best left-backs. But it looks like the Rangers are vying for his signature as well.

As reported by Football Scotland, according to reports in the Netherlands, Ibrox has emerged as a possible destination for Gijs Smal, with the left-back being dubbed ‘the new Maldini’. Celtic were linked with a move for the FC Twente defender last month.

Celtic and Rangers both linked with 'new Maldini’

Smal is 26 years of age and has been a mainstay in the FC Twente backline for several seasons now. According to stats from Transfermarkt, he has made 104 appearances for the club, scoring 4 goals and providing 18 assists.

Smal['s current deal with FC Twente is believed to run out in the summer of 2024. That means that he could be available for a bargain transfer fee this winter.

It remains to be seen if Celtic end up making a move for Smal or not. He is the type of player who might be capable of coming in and immediately challenging Taylor for a spot in the starting XI.