Gyrano Kerk in action for FC Utrecht
According to Daily Record, Utrecht manager John van den Brom has tipped Celtic to sign winger Gyrano Kerk when the transfer window opens.
Kerk, 24, came through the ranks of Haarlem and Utrecht’s youth ranks and made his breakthrough with the former side in the 2014-15 season. Since then, he has been a regular member of the squad and his performances in the last three seasons have been impressive.
The Dutchman has made over 100 appearances for the side and helped them to 6th position in the league standings before the Dutch league was called off. The report suggests Celtic had already made a bid for the winger in January only to see it get rejected. However, with the transfer window nearing, they should make another attempt to sign Kerk in the summer.
The Hoops, meanwhile, have been crowned the Scottish league champions for the 9th time in as many years. Neil Lennon’s men have continued to dominate at the highest stage. They were able to achieve their goal with a big margin on the second-placed Rangers.
Star striker Odsonne Edouard ran the show with 21 goals to his name and was successful in helping his team cross the line. Moreover, as a unit, they have outperformed their opponents in every aspect of the game.
However, with the new season just around the corner, the manager should look to improvise his squad to fare better next season.
One area which the manager should focus on strengthening is the wing. Mikey Johnston, Daniel Arzani and Maryan Shved are the only three wingers available at the manager’s disposal. Just when Johnston’s career seemed to take off, he succumbed to injuries.
Manchester City loanee Arzani didn’t feature in a single league game after rupturing his ligament and could be on his way back to Etihad once his contract comes to an end. And Shved has featured in just one league game so far. Thus, with a lack of quality in the wide areas, a winger is a must in the summer.
In that regard, Utrecht’s Kerk would be a perfect signing for the Hoops. The Dutchman racked up 10 goals and 8 assists in just 24 league games this season. And his numbers have been improving with each season. He has got the experience and could be a crucial player for Celtic next season if he hits form.
It is clear that Celtic are in dire need of wingers to bolster their attacking and Kerk is capable of providing them with the much-needed goals. He could form a strong partnership with Edouard upfront and could also represent them in the long run. Thus, the Hoops must make a prompt attempt for the Dutch winger in the summer.
