Celtic have opened talks with Sheffield United over signing defender George Baldock, according to the Daily Mail.
The 26-year-old was a key part of the Blades side that one promotion to the Premier League this season, but could be allowed to leave by manager Chris Wilder as he looks to fund a rebuild ahead of the club’s return to the top flight.
It is understood that the Hoops have made contact over a move for Baldock, who can also operate on the right of midfield.
Good move for Celtic?
In a word, yes. Baldock is a quality player, and one who could probably cut it in the Premier League. The fact of the matter is, however, that United will need to make sacrifices this summer if they are to fund the kind of spree they will need to stay afloat in the top flight, and so cutting Baldock loose makes sense. That is not necessarily a reflection on the player, and certainly, you would fancy him to have enough to be a real success in the Scottish Premiership. Price will be a factor, but if the deal can be done on the relative cheap, this could be a winner.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
It seems that the Hoops are genuinely keen, and that United could be willing to sell. Those two factors are always the most important in getting a deal over the line, but it does still depend on whether or not Baldock would be keen. Celtic are a huge club, and there’s no reason why he wouldn’t be, but you can never take anything for granted. The best approach with this one will be taking small steps to get it tied up. If a price can be agreed, that will be a great start, and then the Bhoys can take it from there.
This is Futbol rating: 7/10