Celtic legend Kenny Dalglish is expecting ‘quality’ through the doors this summer as Brendan Rodgers looks to bring his team to a new level.
Rodgers did excellently to deliver a league and cup double in his first season back as manager. There were bumps along the way, injuries to contend with and recruitment issues but ultimately the Bhoys came out victorious in Scotland.
Heading into the new season there’s an acknowledgement that Celtic can become even stronger. It’s something that’s been said by captain Callum McGregor and the manager in the wake of double success.
Strengthening naturally occurs as a result of developing players already at the club but the upcoming summer transfer window is key and Celtic have strong resources to bolster Rodgers’ squad having banked another pot of Champions League cash.
Dalglish reckons the Celtic boss is projecting a ‘relaxed’ demeanour. That suggests some smart business is on the way.
Kenny Dalglish on Celtic’s transfer business
The Bhoys icon said [Sunday Post, 02/6 print edition p. 88]: “There is certainty about what they can do in the transfer market and that makes things so much clearer. For Brendan and the hierarchy to know what they have to work with will make it much more comforting. It doesn’t guarantee that things will be straightforward.
“There could still be a scenario that happened last summer with Jota, when a bid from Saudi Arabia came out of the blue and he was away for £25m. But it looks as though Celtic are in a good position to react to anything that may come, such as a huge bid for Matt O’Riley. I’m sure he will be in demand but I’m not taking it for definite that he’ll leave.
“Brendan has given a couple of interviews recently and he seems to be very relaxed about the coming transfer window. Once again, he has stated the need to add quality to his squad and I know exactly where he is coming from. I agree with him.”
Celtic’s transfer priorities this summer
Most glaringly, Celtic need to recruit a goalkeeper following the retirement of Joe Hart. It’s crucial they get that one right given the importance of the position. The net is being cast far and wide for the Englishman’s replacement.
Elsewhere, the left-back spot needs more depth with Alexandro Bernabei on loan in Brazil until the end of 2024. Greg Taylor needs competition and a rotation option.
The heart of defence could do with an injection of quality, too. Liam Scales performed admirably throughout last season but Cameron Carter-Vickers is an elite defender and could do with a partner at that level.
There are needs in attack as well. Will the club spend on Adam Idah or is another striker on the way while Norwich City stall? A ready-made winger to come in and improve on current offerings would be nice too.