Red Bull Salzburg defender Gideon Mensah is set to make a decision on whether or not he wishes to sign for Celtic, according to Ghana Soccernet.
The 21-year-old is likely to be loaned out by the Austrian side as he looks to gain first-team experience to help aid his growth and development.
The Hoops are understood to be one possible destination for the player, but Neil Lennon’s side will face competition from Belgian side Zulte Waregem, as well as Austrian club Sturm Graz, where Mensah spent the second half of last season.
TiF Tactics – What would Mensah bring to Celtic?
The Hoops need a left-back, plain and simple.
With Kieran Tierney completing his move to Arsenal this summer there has been a sizeable void left in Neil Lennon’s squad.
The Scottish international was a big part of the Bhoys’ side, as shown by his Europa League form last season.
Over the course of six appearances, he managed 1.7 tackles, 2.2 interceptions, and 2.5 clearances per game, as per Whoscored. He was a threat on the front foot too, making 1.7 key passes and 1.2 successful dribbles per match.
Losing him was a blow, therefore, and in his absence, the Hoops only really have Boli Bolingoli in that position.
Mensah would help alleviate that problem.
The youngster has a whole load of potential and was linked with a move to Barcelona only last week, as reported by the Daily Mail.
His career is on a steady upward trajectory, having completed a permanent move from FC Liefering to RB Salzburg this summer, and the fact that the Bhoys have competition for his signature should tell you how much of a coup a loan spell would be.
Is it likely to happen?
It’s difficult to say really, but certainly, it’s better for the Hoops to be in the running than not.
Left-back seems to be a priority area for Lennon to strengthen before the transfer window slams shut, and Celtic have been heavily linked with a move for Kilmarnock defender Greg Taylor – although they may face an uphill battle to land him, with Sunderland said to be keen on the 21-year-old too, as reported by the Daily Record.
If that deal falls through then you would assume that they will be keen to get a swoop for Mensah over the line, but with other clubs circling, and with the deadline looming large, don’t be surprised to see the Ghanian slip through Lennon’s fingers.