Celtic are yet to make their first signing this summer as Brendan Rodgers takes stock before pushing any buttons in the market.
Speculation is rife regarding potential arrivals, and there has been no shortage of links far and wide to players who could improve the Irishman’s squad.
Herediano forward Andy Rojas and BK Hacken’s Pontus Dahbo are said to be on the agenda; meanwhile, the hunt for a new stopper at Parkhead continues to take shape.
Sparta Prague goalkeeper Peter Vindahl Jensen and Newcastle United’s Martin Dubravka are thought to be among the frontrunners; nevertheless, it looks like Scott Bain will be between the sticks for the Bhoys’ first pre-season fixture against Ayr United on Friday evening.
Time is of the essence for Celtic, with just over a month until the Scottish Premiership season begins, which isn’t a huge amount of time for Rodgers to restructure his squad.
When Celtic should aim to introduce some new arrivals
It isn’t unusual to take time in the market to try and recruit the best available assets; however, being impatient is natural as a football fan and erodes excitement.
Either way, it is unlikely that Celtic supporters see any prospective new recruits against Ayr at Somerset Park later this week, albeit not impossible.
Unless something drastic changes, the same will probably apply to the Bhoys’ short trip to face Queens Park the following Wednesday, the second of preparatory matches for the highly-anticipated United States tour where three clashes against DC United, Manchester City and Chelsea await.
Celtic kick off their Stateside engagement against DC United on July 20th, meaning they will fly out at some point before to acclimatize and get familiar with their surroundings. This would be the optimum point to introduce one or two fresh additions.
The goalkeeper position is the most pressing priority this summer, in my opinion. Whoever replaces Joe Hart will need time to build a relationship with his defensive unit, making it paramount that they play some part in the US.
Ultimately, the league campaign will kick in only a couple of weeks after the tour. Celtic won’t have done all their business by that point, but it would be nice to have already got a flavour of what some can bring to the table. #Excitingly, any transfers conducted while the friendlies across the Atlantic are ongoing could also include the possibility of them flying over to join the camp.
With fans scrolling social media for updates on training, matches and their heroes enjoying what will be a unique experience, imagine the excitement of seeing some fresh faces taking their rightful place among the group!