Celtic defender Gustaf Lagerbielke has recently admitted he is keen to seek regular football following a year of frustration since joining from Elfsborg last summer.
The Sweden international has made just ten appearances in green and white, scoring once against Feyenoord in the Champions League [Transfermarkt].
Earlier this month, he spoke to media in his homeland and revealed that several sides are keen to offer him a new challenge, which is something he would consider to stop his career from stalling at Celtic.
He stated: “There are interested teams in Italy and also other leagues.” Later, he elaborated on his thoughts, stating: “Just like any other player, I want to play and make a difference. I’m ready to do that if the opportunity arises.”
Serie A outfit Lecce are believed to be one of his suitors after reports emerged claiming they have made an approach for the 24-year-old on a loan deal with an option to buy.
Now, more information on his predicament has come to light as Celtic look to kick off their transfer business.
The latest on Gustaf Lagerbielke’s situation at Celtic
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Lecce have narrowed their search for a centre-back down to two options, with Lagerbielke and Estrela da Amadora man Kialonda Gaspar on the list to bolster their rearguard.
It is unclear the direction they may turn; however, it does appear that Celtic supporters will know sooner rather than later where the Swedish outcast could move from Parkhead.
Getting his wages off the books could enable Brendan Rodgers to recruit an adequate replacement in the heart of defence. Salernitana’s Flavius Daniliuc has been cited as someone the Scottish Premiership holders have ‘concrete interest’ in.
Despite possessing obvious talent, Lagerbielke has been almost completely frozen out at Celtic over the last few months, making his departure this summer something of an inevitability.
Hopefully, he can get his career back on track somewhere else. Depending on the terms of any prospective deal, it would be nice to see the Bhoys recoup some of the £3 million they shelled out for his services in 2023.