Nir Bitton’s display against Hamilton a few weeks ago was impressive. It was safe, resolute and most importantly, there was no drama or fuss.

Considering Celtic have been so disastrous defensively this season, it was a welcome change.

The Hoops have shipped 19 goals in the Europa League and they have also conceded ten more goals than Rangers in the league, despite playing on three fewer occasions.

We issued claims that Bitton had begun to solve some of Neil Lennon’s issues but in the Old Firm derby, he was undoubtedly the biggest letdown.

The Israel international was sent off and consequently, the Bhoys tasted defeat against their bitter rivals.

If there was ever a timely reminder of the problems Lennon has, it was there for all to see last weekend. Thus, in January the club simply have to find a new centre-back.

If they don’t, it must be their main focus in the summer window.

Fortunately, someone capable of fixing their defensive struggles has presented themselves. That happens to be Motherwell colossus Declan Gallagher.

A source close to Gallagher told The Daily Record this week: “He is desperate to play for Celtic and in the current climate, he would be a brilliant signing.”

Gallagher is out of contract at the end of the season and thus, could either be available for a cut-price fee or on a free transfer in several months time. Celtic are now supposedly monitoring his situation alongside Blackburn, Hibernian and Aberdeen.

If the move did go through, it would be a humongous upgrade on the player that was shown a red card against the Gers.

Bitton has proven himself to be an inconsistent figure at Parkhead and in Gallagher, they’d have one of the best players aerially in the entire division.

He has won a mammoth 83 aerial duels this term – the 16th highest in the SPFL – which means he is above Bitton. The Celtic defender has only won 3.7 aerial duels per game compared to Gallagher’s 4.2.

Furthermore, he wins more tackles a match – 1.5 compared to Bitton’s 0.8.

Standing at 6 foot 6, there aren’t many taller players in the league. Dubbed a “complete player” by former Motherwell boss Steve Robinson, he would be an astute acquisition from Nick Hammond.

Celtic must tie things up for the seven cap Scotland international as quickly as possible.

AND in other news, Forget Laxalt: Celtic must swoop for 21 y/o who makes defenders do "very silly things"...