Celtic have been linked with quite a few midfielders in recent times despite signing Paulo Bernardo on a permanent basis from Benfica after a solid loan spell at Parkhead last season. One has to wonder whether the club are preparing for life after Matt O'Riley, with the Danish international being linked with teams like Chelsea, Juventus, Atalanta and many others.
One of the midfielders Celtic have been linked with this summer is Hannibal Mejbri of Manchester United. While coming through the ranks at the English club, he was one of their most highly-rated prospects, but things have not gone smoothly at the senior level.
So far, Mejbri has made less appearances for Manchester United than he has for the Tunisia national team. His loan spell at Sevilla did not prove to be a success either.
It might be time for a change in scenery for Mejbri as he seems to be tired of sitting on the bench. As reported by The National, he said:
"As a footballer, I just want to play and show myself. Every player will say the same. I’m tired of sitting on a bench watching others play."
Manchester United player makes blunt admission amid Celtic links
The success of someone like O'Riley should convince players like Mejbri about the rewards that performing at Celtic could bring. Just two-and-a-half years ago, the Danish international was playing in the third tier of English football and now he is wanted by some of Europe's biggest clubs.
Of course, Mejbri is yet to prove himself at the top level even though he showed a ton of potential while coming up through the youth ranks. So, there would be a certain amount of risk involved in a move for him for sure.
Celtic are not the only Scottish club to be linked with Mejbri either. It has been suggested that the Rangers hold an interest in him as well. Let's wait and see what the future holds for the Manchester United youngster.