Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers will be identifying transfer targets this summer regardless of how the rest of the campaign unfolds.
With six Scottish Premiership fixtures left to play, the Bhoys are determined to claim the top spot, which, in turn, will present the riches of automatic entry to the new Champions League format next term.
Of course, qualifying for Europe’s elite competition once again would be an enticing prospect for future signings, as Rodgers aims to deliver sustained success across his second spell at Parkhead.
Departures are also likely to occur, with several fringe players continuing to take up valuable wage space at Lennoxtown.
Evaluating the squad, James McCarthy, Yuki Kobayashi, and Gustaf Lagerbielke haven’t broken 15 appearances between them this campaign, making them clear candidates to seek new pastures in the summer [Transfermarkt].
Republic of Ireland international Liam Scales is yet to pen an extension at Parkhead amid his contract expiring in 2025; meanwhile, Maik Nawrocki’s injury struggles have limited his involvement since arriving at the club.
Although some may not view the pursuit of a new central defender as an immediate priority, finding someone to partner Cameron Carter-Vickers would be a wise move once the window opens.
Derby County defender Eiran Cashin could be of interest to Celtic
Recruitment-wise, Celtic usually cast the net far and wide for new additions, finding valuable assets in untapped markets that can eventually be sold on for significant profit.
Nevertheless, the English lower leagues also offer a brilliant pathway for players to establish themselves at one of the biggest clubs in world football. Matt O’Riley, Gary Hooper, and Joe Ledley are prominent examples from the recent past.
In light of this, Derby Country defender Eiran Cashin could be someone who could follow their path following his excellent displays at Pride Park this term.
The 22-year-old has been ever-present for the Rams during their promotion push, registering three goals and one assist in 48 appearances across all competitions, per Transfermarkt.
Born in Mansfield, Cashin is a Republic of Ireland Under-21 international who operates on the left-hand side of Paul Warne’s backline, kicking with the same foot. This proposition is interesting in light of Scales’ uncertain contractual situation at Parkhead.
Per Fotmob, the Rams’ defender has contributed to his side’s build-up play efficiently this term, completing 1,601 successful passes, 199 accurate long balls, and creating 17 goalscoring opportunities.
Illustrating his awareness of oncoming danger, Cashin has also won 352 duels, made 229 recoveries, and 65 interceptions, alongside recording a tackle success rate of 77.8%, the same outlet show.
Claiming an average Sofascore match rating of 7.39/10, the Irishman ranks highly in successful clearances with 5.2 per match.
Cashin is considered Derby County’s best-performing player in League One this campaign and positions first regarding blocked shots [WhoScored].
Brighton & Hove Albion, West Ham United, Burnley, and Sheffield United were all keen on his services during the transfer window, signifying there are several top-level clubs keeping tabs on his situation [TEAMtalk].
Feasibly, his current employers would demand a pretty penny for his signature; nevertheless, Cashin is a name Celtic should have on their radar heading towards the window opening.