Celtic are closing in on a move for Benjamin Nygren, who can play as a number 10 as well as a winger. But there have been suggestions that Brendan Rodgers could be looking to play the Nordsjaelland player as an attacking midfielder. Having scored 16 goals last season, he could feel the void left behind in midfield by Matt O'Riley's departure.
At the same time, Celtic need to add some steel and agility to their midfield as well. In big games, they have struggled to control the middle of the park, which is very vital in close contests. That is why we have seen them being linked with a number of physical midfielders lately.
One of them is Andy Irving. The former Hearts midfielder is currently at West Ham United but has struggled for playing time. Even the arrival of Graham Potter did not change that and now, a move might be the best path forward for all parties.
Celtic have been told that Irving could be open to a return to Scotland this summer. As reported by Football Insider, Mick Brown said:
"Celtic have been keeping tabs on his situation and they know what he can do.
“I think it’s something he’d be open to as well, a move back to Scotland.
“They could give him that opportunity because they want to strengthen in midfield.
“They’re in a difficult market, it’s not easy to sign Premier League-level players, but if one becomes available like he has, I think they’ll be all over it.
“It’s one they’ll look to get done when the window opens."
Premier League midfielder would be open to Celtic move
It remains to be seen if Celtic do end up making a move for Irving this summer or not. He has been linked with a move to Parkhead for quite a few years now. This transfer window feels like the perfect opportunity to make it happen, with him clearly not having much of a future at West Ham United.
That being said, one cannot overlook the fact that Celtic have been linked with plenty of other midfielders. Players who have been getting more regular game time and might cost less, in terms of transfer fee and salary.
So, it is no given that Celtic will definitely go after Irving this summer. But if they do, there is the possibility that he could do well in a green-and-white jersey. Let's see what the future holds.