New Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou talks a very impressive game. We discovered that fact when he first penned terms but his words after their first pre-season win offered plenty of optimism.
The Australian hoped to have new signings announced within the next seven days, suggesting he’d put forward his own targets to the Hoops board.
What’s the word?
One area the Bhoys have been looking to strengthen this summer is in defence.
A move for Mario Vuskovic could be on the cards while Celtic are also aiming to bring Aaron Hickey back to Parkhead.
However, the latest deal that could occur is one for Cameron Carter-Vickers. The Tottenham centre-back was linked with a move to Glasgow last month and it would appear that their interest is beginning to materialise.
According to reporter, Larry Henry Jr, Celtic have been in talks with Spurs over a potential transfer.
They face competition from Newcastle and from his former loan club, Bournemouth.
The central defender currently earns a salary of £20k-per-week so may need to take a slight reduction.
Starfelt alternative
One deal that looks a distinct possibility at the moment is Carl Starfelt’s. Celtic were touted with a switch earlier this week by Fabrizio Romano.
Postecoglou may need to pay £4m for his services but if a deal falls through, Carter-Vickers would be the perfect alternative.
One of the stand out qualities of Starfelt’s game is undoubtedly his distribution. No player completed a higher rate of successful passes than the Swede (91.4%) in the entire Russian top-flight last season.
Compare that to their newest target and it’s hugely similar. The American defender completed 84% of his passes last term but during a loan spell with possession-based side, Swansea City, he successfully found a teammate at a rate of 91.6%.
Both players are similarly adept in the air as well. Carter-Vickers won 2.8 aerial duels per game last season for Bournemouth compared to 2.7 aerial battles per match won by Starfelt in 2019/20.
Described as a player of “incredible” character by former Luton boss Graeme Jones, Carter-Vickers would also be well equipped to deal with the demands of the Premiership.
He has already played in a comparable league like the Championship and thrived under various coaches in different systems.
With the duo both possessing international experience, it could be a tricky decision to determine which player to sign. That said, with Celtic’s defensive record so diabolical last season, they could bring both to Glasgow.
Last term they conceded 16 more goals than Rangers in the league so they clearly need players who can improve their rugged backline.