Celtic’s transfer window is hotting up with Ange Postecoglou already welcoming two new faces at Parkhead.
Liam Shaw and Osaze Urhoghide have both arrived from south of the border but the Hoops must press on ahead of an important European qualification phase.
What’s the word?
One player on Celtic’s radar at the moment is Sheffield United defender George Baldock.
The wing-back was relegated with the Blades last term and could be on the move early in the window.
Baldock has attracted the interest of the Bhoys since 2019 but they are now stepping up their pursuit.
Sheffield Star reported last week that Celtic were willing to put £8m on the table after the transfer was sanctioned by Postecoglou.
However, in a fresh update from journalist Alan Nixon, he claims that Baldock might not come at a hefty price.
Responding to a supporter who was querying the price tag, he said; “it’s not fortunes.”
Exciting news
This is a double whammy of good news for Celtic supporters. The Hoops desperately need a right back and they need to find a way of saving funds.
Last week, the Star suggested that an £8m bid from the Glaswegian club would fall way short of the evaluation necessary before the Yorkshire club even contemplated doing business.
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However, Nixon’s claim appears to contradict the previous report. Celtic’s record transfer was the arrival of Odsonne Edouard for £9m from PSG back in 2018 and it would be difficult to see a deal usurping that.
Baldock to Celtic would surely surpass that fee and for a defender, it would be surprising if they made that outlay.
Possessing Premier League experience, the thought that he won’t cost a great deal should make fans excited.
At the moment, the club’s only right-backs to choose from would be Lee O’Connor, who spent last term on loan at Tranmere, or Anthony Ralston. He only played once in the entirety of 2020/21, meaning he shouldn’t really be first choice.
Baldock, on the other hand, would surely thrive in the Premiership. During his first campaign in the top-flight of English football, he contributed to five goals which built on an impressive Championship promotion-winning season.
Strong in the tackle, Baldock has completed 1.8 successful tackles per match throughout his career. That tally tops every player at Celtic last season excluding the tough-natured Ismaila Soro.
On that evidence, this should be stirring news for supporters. He is evidently an upgrade on the current options they have at their disposal.