Rodrigo Riquelme (Getty Images)
As per Mundo Deportivo (h/t MSN), Celtic have inquired about the availability of signing Atletico Madrid youngster Rodrigo Riquelme this summer.
The report suggests that the Hoops could face competition to secure his services as fierce-rivals Rangers are also interested in securing his services. It also claims that Atletico Madrid are willing to let some of their youth players leave and Riquelme could leave for £27m.
Born in Spain, Riquelme joined Atletico Madrid’s youth set-up in 2010 after representing Rayo Vallecano and Real Zaragoza. The youngster excelled with the club’s youth teams, featuring mainly in the Segunda Division. He scored 7 goals and provided 6 assists in 28 games across all competitions in the 2019/20 campaign for Atletico’s B team.
He made his La Liga debut last season in a 3-2 win over Eibar but since then, he has lacked regular game time. A talented youngster, Riquelme has been deprived of regular action and that could hamper his progress. Thus, Celtic should make a move for him at the earliest.
At the moment, Neil Lennon has just two natural wingers at his disposal. Mohamed Elyounoussi has started the new campaign on a high note. However, he is on loan from Southampton and his future at the club is uncertain.
The other winger is Mikey Johnston. The youngster has struggled with injuries in the last couple of seasons and is still on the sidelines after undergoing a calf surgery. Scottish international James Forrest has been deployed on the right side of the attack.
Moreover, Daniel Arzani has also left the Hoops in order to get regular game time. Thus, they should consider signing a winger before the transfer window closes.
In that regard, Riquelme would be a smart signing for the club. The youngster has already shown immense potential at youth levels and is one of the best young talents across Europe. He is capable of operating from either flank and could come in handy for Lennon’s side, which has lacked enough options in the wide areas.
Moreover, he could also go on to represent the Hoops in the long run if he develops himself under the guidance of Lennon. He has the ability to perform at a high level and with experience, he should only get better.
With limited options in the wide areas, Celtic are in dire need of wingers. And Riquelme would be a viable option for the club. And investing in him could also help the Hoops reap rewards in the future. Thus, signing him this summer would be a wise decision by the Scottish giants.
