Celtic are on the hunt for new signings this summer, and a whole host of options will be keen to seek a new challenge.
For Brendan Rodgers, the goalkeeper position is set to be a major priority due to Joe Hart’s retirement; however, despite several names being linked, there isn’t detailed confirmation on who could succeed the Englishman.
At this time of year, there is also usually a clamour after clubs announce their retained lists, which leads to a wealth of free agents being on the market that can be brought without spending a penny.
In the past, Celtic have used this mode of recruitment to their advantage, with Aaron Mooy being the most recent example of success.
Despite this, Rodgers shouldn’t jump the gun on targets he may see as viable due to holding this status.
Why Celtic shouldn’t jump the gun on free agent availability
Everybody loves a bargain, but contrary to popular opinion, a lot of free agents actually cost a lot more than is let on for several reasons.
Taking a look at the Premier League’s retained list results, Ryan Sessegnon and Japhet Tanganga stand out as two of the more lucrative names available after they left Tottenham Hotspur under freedom of contract [Premier League].
Of late, neither of these players have been linked with Celtic; I am making that crystal clear. However, using the pair as an example, there is evidence as to why the club shouldn’t dive in head first, even if an individual has an appealing profile.
Per Spotrac, Sessengon was reported to be earning 55,000 per week in North London; meanwhile, Tanganga, who spent time on loan at Augsburg and Millwall in 2023/24, was still earning around £25,000 every seven days from the Lilywhites.
Now, I am not saying either player wouldn’t improve Celtic. Fully fit, they would be valuable assets, you only need to look at their profile to determine that.
However, Sessengnon made just one appearance this term due to injury issues [Transfermarkt]. His former teammate Tanganga managed 18, as cited by the same outlet, but between them, not breaking the 20 mark will come as a disappointment.
They are both probably a bit unfortunate to be used as an example, but if Celtic were theoretically sniffing around, and the same goes for other talented individuals in a similar predicament, the duo would each command a hefty wage and signing-on bonus in line with the financial parameters at Parkhead.
Celtic have muscle on that front, but not an endless supply, which is why they need to use it wisely to get their money’s worth. The same should apply to any potential free agent targets.