Celtic are closing in on their first January signing after RB Leipzig defender Marvin Compper was given a ‘cloak-and-dagger’ tour of the club’s facilities, according to the Daily Mail.
The 32-year-old defender reportedly flew into Glasgow on a private jet on Thursday, before being given a VIP tour of Parkhead followed by talks with the club’s hierarchy which have now reached the advanced stage.
Compper then flew back to Leipzig after those discussions, and Celtic are said to be prepared to splash out £900,000 for the experienced enforcer.
The centre-back is a one-time Germany international, but has struggled to force his way into Leipzig’s plans this season.
He has made just three appearances in all competitions, totalling just 108 minutes of action all season.
Good move for Celtic?
Brendan Rodgers has spoken out about his desire to bring in some defensive reinforcements in January.
As quoted by the Mail, he said: “Our identity as a team is to defend well first of all. And I think we can still be better on that front even though we’ve conceded less goals at this period of the season than we did last season.”
He is reportedly looking to bring in two defenders in January, and Compper would be a solid first addition.
The 32-year-old has vast experience in the Bundesliga and Serie A, and at just £900,000 would not break the bank.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
Speculation has been rife linking Compper to a move to Parkhead, and if he has now visited the club and held talks with officials then a deal would seem to be close.
It looks like a move that would benefit both parties, with Compper probably able to slot straight in to the Celtic back line and the club not having to shell out too much cash for his signature.
Rodgers will be looking to secure a deal for the veteran as soon as possible, hopefully before the window starts, so he can get the player in early and bed him in to the squad.
At this point, it looks like all we are waiting for is a signature.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10