Celtic are said to be monitoring versatile Club America centre back Edson Alvarez, according to Mexican outlet Record.
The publication claims that the 20-cap Mexican international is of interest to Brendan Rodgers’ side, as well as a host of other European outfits.
Alvarez is thought to have impressed many potential suitors at the World Cup in Russia this summer, and his ability to play in defensive midfield as well as at the back may entice the Hoops to make a move.
Alvarez has been a first team regular for the Mexican giants over the past three seasons since making his debut as a 19-year-old.
Good move for Celtic?
Alvarez is, by all accounts, a solid player and he certainly operates in a position of need for Celtic. The Hoops face an uncertain future at the heart of the defence, with Dedryck Boyata’s future uncertain and Filip Benkovic only at the club on loan for the season from Leicester City. Joao Simunovic and Jack Hendry remain at the club, of course, but they are unlikely to be cornerstones of Rodgers’ team moving forward. Alvarez’s ability to move forward into holding midfield, as well as play at centre back, is an attractive quality for any team – and especially so for Celtic with Scott Brown not getting any younger. Alvarez looked pretty good at the World Cup and likely wouldn’t cost the world so, all in all, this would be a decent move for the Hoops.
This is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
It all depends on what Club America want for the player and whether it’s affordable for Celtic. If there are other clubs interested in Alvarez then that could complicate matters, but as long as the Mexican side don’t want a ridiculous amount of money then there’s no reason why this deal shouldn’t get done.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10