Why Celtic should continue in their pursuit for Mitchel Bakker
According to Daily Record, Celtic are still in the hunt to sign Paris Saint-Germain youngster Mitchel Bakker this summer.
The report suggests that despite the French giants rejecting a bid earlier for the youngster, the Hoops remain keen to sign him. Bakker is on top of Celtic’s wish list and Neil Lennon is hoping to add a few more new faces to his squad.
Profile
Born in the Netherlands, Bakker started his journey with FC Purmerend in his hometown before joining the famous Ajax youth academy in 2010. He excelled with the club’s youth teams and helped them lift several trophies, including two U19 league titles and one U17 league title.
However, just after making two appearances for the senior side, he was signed by PSG on a free transfer last summer. But his time in the French capital hasn’t been fruitful as he made just 5 appearances last season.
Bakker has represented the Netherlands national team at various age-group levels from U15 to U19 and is yet to make his debut for the U21s.
Bakker would provide depth to Celtic’s defence
Neil Lennon’s men have started their hunt for the tenth league title and are currently in the 3rd position in the league standings with two games in hand. However, with the transfer window still open, the manager should look to bring in reinforcements to several key areas and add depth to the squad.
One area which needs to be strengthened is the left-back position. At the moment, Greg Taylor is the only recognized option available in that position after Boli Bolingoli was suspended. The Scottish international has been the first-choice since the second half of the previous campaign.
However, Bolingoli’s future with the club remains uncertain following his transgressions. He is linked with a move elsewhere. Thus, the Hoops need to push hard in their pursuit of Bakker this summer. The Dutch youngster would be a smart signing for the club as he would provide depth on the left side of the defence and would also bring in healthy competition to Taylor.
Though his numbers may not be among the best, he showed immense potential during his time at Ajax. Given his age, he can represent Celtic in the long run. He is also capable of operating in a centre-back role and his versatility can come in handy for the manager.
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Verdict
With Bolingoli’s future uncertain and limited options at left-back, it is clear that Celtic are in need of new additions. And Bakker would be a handy addition to play a supporting role to Taylor, whilst also helping them maintain the squad depth. Thus, they should attempt to lure the 20-year-old Dutch youngster to Celtic Park this summer.
