Boli Bolingoli joined Celtic last summer (Getty Images)
As per Tuttomercatoweb (h/t Daily Record), AS Roma are interested in signing Celtic ace Boli Bolingoli ahead of the new campaign.
The report suggests that the Belgian is not expected to play for the Hoops anymore and is currently serving a 3-match suspension for breaking rules. And the Serie A outfit want him as a replacement for the Inter Milan-bound Aleksandar Kolarov.
Born in Zaire, Bolingoli flourished through the ranks of Club Brugge’s youth system. He made 64 appearances for Brugge before moving on a six-month loan spell to Sint-Truidense. He was then signed by Rapid Vienna in the summer of 2017 and went on to become a key figure of the Austrian outfit.
His impressive performances in Austria earned him a move to Celtic last summer. He made 29 appearances for the Scottish giants last season and played a part in Celtic’s title-winning campaign. However, he has fallen down the pecking order behind Greg Taylor at Celtic Park.
Neil Lennon’s men have begun their quest for the 10th league title in a row as they lie in the 3rd position in the league standings with 2 games in hand. However, with a difficult campaign ahead, they should look to keep hold of players.
In that regard, handing Bolingoli another chance could prove to be a wise decision by the club. At the moment, the Hoops have only two left-backs in their ranks. Taylor has been the first choice on the left side of the defence since the second half of the 2019/20 campaign. The Scottish international has been in brilliant form since then. And Bolingoli is the only other option available.
Since they haven’t bought any other left-back so far, they should consider sticking on to the Belgian. Though he is currently out of form, he could help the Hoops maintain their squad depth. eH could be a crucial player if the manager decides to rotate his squad.
Any injury or a need for rest for Taylor should be considered by the club before they decide to offload Bolingoli. In 14 league games last season, he managed to provide 2 assists and could do well if he is given the right opportunities. Moreover, with the financial constraints, the Glasgow-based side would find it difficult to bring in new faces if they sell the former Rapid Vienna man.
At 25, Bolingoli has a lot to offer. And with limited options on the left side of the defence, Celtic would be wise to keep hold of him. He could help them keep their squad depth intact and help the team according to the situation.
