Celtic are closing in on another title triumph and moves will already be accelerating behind the scenes as the foundations are laid for summer arrivals to sign on the dotted line at Parkhead.
Celtic plot strong domestic finish ahead of summer business
Brendan Rodgers has had things mostly his own way in the Scottish Premiership amid the absence of a prolonged title challenge from Rangers this campaign.
The Bhoys retain a 13-point lead over their rivals heading into the latest round of league fixtures. At the same time, they only need a minimum of five more victories in the top-flight to mathematically secure a fourth crown on the trot.
Following a convincing 5-1 victory over Aberdeen in midweek, Celtic travel to face St Mirren in Saturday’s late kick-off at the SMiSA Stadium carrying the omen that they have only lost out once in their last 20 visits to Paisley across all competitions.
While their Scottish Cup involvement could offer the chance for a domestic clean sweep, Rodgers will likely be plotting summer moves to equip his side for another crack at the Champions League if they can progress through qualifying later in the year.
Recently, Celtic’s interest in Norwich City forward Borja Sainz has come to light after the Spaniard’s run of 16 goals and four assists in 31 appearances this term.
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Statement arrivals will be on the agenda, and Rodgers has now confirmed the club are set for talks with another potential recruit as the wheels begin to turn on what is expected to be a busy summer window.
Brendan Rodgers confirms Jeffrey Schlupp Celtic talks
Speaking ahead of his side’s trip to face St Mirren, Rodgers confirmed he will consult January loan signing Jeffrey Schlupp over a permanent Celtic move after his blistering start to life in Glasgow’s east end.
He explained: “I’ll have a chat with Jeffrey towards the latter part of the season. It was the case of him coming in and settling and getting to understand how he plays. I think we can all see he has that Premier League physicality and quality.
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Schlupp’s immediate Celtic impact in numbers – Premiership |
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Tackles success |
83.8% |
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Duels won |
19 |
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Pass accuracy |
86% |
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Ball Recoveries |
11 |
|
Shots |
4 |
“He’s a guy that’s a top professional. That’s why he’s been over a decade in the Premier League, because you have to look after yourself. You’ve got to have the right qualities, not only as a player but as a person. We knew what we were bringing in. I’m really happy for him, because he’s settled into the group really well now.”
Dovetailing with Greg Taylor in the left-back position, Schlupp has made seven appearances since arriving from Crystal Palace last month on a temporary basis, when the boss hailed his “incredible pace and power”.
Earning 20 caps for Ghana, the 32-year-old is set to be a free agent in the summer and may be a cost efficient option to compete with Kieran Tierney after the Scotland international signed a pre-contract with Celtic.
Nevertheless, it remains to be seen if the experienced full-back would be open to staying in Scotland long-term in spite of his initial impact in Glasgow.