How Celtic could line up if they signed their transfer targets in the summer
Neil Lennon’s Celtic side are on course to lift the 2019/20 Premiership title as they are well and truly ahead of rivals Rangers in the race. They have been brilliant throughout the campaign and are atop the league table.
However, the Hoops have been linked with a move for some good players. Amiens striker Serhou Guirassy, one of their targets, is seen as a replacement for Odsonne Edouard, who could leave the club, as per Daily Mail. 19-year-old winger Rodrigo Riquelme, who has been brilliant for Atletico Madrid’s youth sides has also been linked with a move to Celtic Park, according to Daily Record.
Irish international Jeff Hendrick, whose contract with Burnley is set to expire at the end of the season, is one of the main targets for the Glasgow club, as per Daily Record. Let’s take a look at how Celtic could line up with all the aforementioned players if they are signed in the summer.
Dream Celtic XI with Guirassy, Riquelme and Hendrick
Formation: 3-5-2
Fraser Forster (GK)
If the Englishman’s move to Scotland is made permanent, Forster should continue in goal for the Hoops. He has been brilliant in his loan spell, conceding just 17 goals and keeping 14 clean sheets so far.
Christopher Jullien (LCB)
The former French U20 international has been in fine form since his arrival last summer and has struck a strong partnership with Kristoffer Ajer at the back. He has also contributed with 4 goals and 2 assists in the league.
Kristoffer Ajer (CB)
The Norway international has emerged as one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe after an impressive season so far. Celtic should do everything possible to keep hold of him and should help him develop into a key player in their defence.
Nir Bitton (RCB)
A defensive midfielder by trade, Bitton has grown accustomed to this position of late. He could be a crucial player for the Scottish champions if he continues to keep up the good form.
Greg Taylor (RM)
The 22-year-old has slowly made his way into the starting XI after struggling initially on his arrival last summer. He has already contributed with 5 assists while operating from a slightly higher role. He could go on to represent them in the long run.
Jeff Hendrick (CM)
The former Derby County man has established himself as one of Burnley’s key midfielders in the last four seasons. Thus, Lennon must try to lure him as he still has a lot more to offer at a higher level. He could replace the ageing Scott Brown.
Ryan Christie (CM)
Christie has been one of the best players this season in the Premiership and has been directly involved in 22 goals for his side this term (11 goals and 11 assists). He has the ability to carry the team in the future and is always reliable, given he keeps himself away from injuries.
Callum McGregor (CM)
The 26-year-old has been a regular for Celtic this term, racking up 9 goals and 7 assists so far. McGregor has been a fine partner for Christie in midfield and the duo is capable of working wonders for the club.
Rodrigo Riquelme (LM)
With a lack of quality and depth in the wide areas, Riquelme’s inclusion in the squad would be a huge boost to Celtic’s attacking unit. He should be brought in as he has been brilliant for Atletico Madrid’s youth sides and has the ability to develop.
Serhou Guirassy (RS)
The Frenchman may not be a prolific goalscorer, but he has proved to be of immense help to Amiens this term. He should be a key target for them if Edouard leaves for a new challenge in the summer.
Leigh Griffiths (ST)
Griffiths has racked up 9 goals and 4 assists in the Premiership so far and has proved to be supportive of his strike partner up front. He still has a few more years to perform at a higher level and should continue with the same role.
