Rocco Vata exit could help Celtic sign Serie A striker

Rocco Vata has been one of the standout players for Celtic B this season. Yet, that has not helped him get playing time for the senior team. He did make a few appearances last season but since the arrival of Brendan Rodgers as manager in the summer, he has not featured. The situation is a bit confusing to be honest and the youngster looks destined to leave, whether it be this month or next summer.

Vata's current deal runs out in the summer. Considering his current circumstances, an exit seems pretty much inevitable and an extension almost impossible.

Vata seems to be drawing a lot of interest from the Serie A. And that could help Celtic add to their options up top.

As reported by Gazzetta dello Sport [12/01 print edition, page 22] (via 67 Hail Hail), Sydney van Hooijdonk will leave Bologna in the second half of January after a move for Santiago Castro. The newspaper puts forward the hypothesis that Celtic is a likely destination for the Dutchman, especially as the Scottish champions have Vata, who the Italian club are interested in. That could theoretically ease negotiations.

Vata exit could help Celtic sign Serie A striker

Van Hooijdonk has been linked with Celtic several times in the past. His father, Pierre, used to play for the Hoops as well and enjoyed quite a bit of success while he was at the club.

Van Hooijdonk showed his quality while on loan at Heerenveen last season. He scored 19 goals for the Dutch club across all competitions through the course of the 2022/23 campaign.

He has found the going tough back at Bologna though. Chances have been difficult to come by and even when he has been on the pitch, Van Hooijdonk has not been prolific. Thus, a move away could help him.