The transfer window is heating up in Scotland, with Celtic at the center of attention. The Scottish champions are linked with several players, including Benjamin Tahirovic, Arne Engels, Alistair Johnston, and Stephen Welsh. But who are these players, and what do they bring to the table? Let's take a closer look.
Benjamin Tahirovic
The 23-year-old midfielder from Bosnia and Herzegovina is a rising star in European football. Tahirovic has been making waves with his performances for Brondby, and Celtic are reportedly interested in bringing him to Parkhead. What makes Tahirovic so exciting is his versatility and technical ability. He can play in multiple positions, including as a central midfielder and a winger, and his ability to create chances for his teammates is a key strength. However, his defensive contributions are also impressive, making him a well-rounded player. If Celtic can secure his services, he could be a key player in their midfield for years to come.
Arne Engels
Another midfielder on Celtic's radar is 22-year-old Arne Engels. The Belgian player has been a regular for Celtic this season, and his performances have not gone unnoticed. Engels is a strong and physical presence in midfield, capable of winning possession and breaking up play. He also has a keen eye for a pass and can contribute to Celtic's attacking play. However, his defensive capabilities have been a point of concern, and it remains to be seen if he can improve in that area. With Fulham, Nottingham Forest, and Sunderland showing interest, Celtic may need to act quickly to keep him.
Alistair Johnston
Celtic's interest in Canadian right-back Alistair Johnston is an interesting development. At 27 years old, Johnston has been a solid performer for Celtic, and his versatility is a key asset. He can play as a right-back or as a wing-back, and his ability to provide width and attacking options is valuable. However, his defensive skills have been called into question, and it remains to be seen if he can handle the demands of a top-flight league. Jackie McNamara's comments suggest that Celtic may be looking to strengthen their defense, and Johnston could be a key part of that plan.
Stephen Welsh
Finally, Celtic are reportedly close to signing Stephen Welsh from Swansea City. The 26-year-old center-back is out of contract after his loan spell with Motherwell, and he has agreed a two-year deal with the Championship club. Welsh is a strong and physical defender, and his experience in the Scottish Premiership could be a valuable asset for Celtic. His ability to organize the defense and make crucial tackles is a key strength. With his contract situation resolved, Welsh could be a key player for Celtic in the coming seasons.
Conclusion
The transfer window is a time of excitement and speculation for Celtic fans, and these links provide a glimpse into the potential future of the club. While the names mentioned may not all come to fruition, they highlight the areas where Celtic may need to strengthen and the types of players they are looking for. With Martin O'Neill at the helm, Celtic are building a strong foundation, and these potential signings could be the pieces that complete the puzzle.
