On the latest episode of A Celtic State of Mind podcast, journalist Tony Haggerty has been speaking about all things Celtic following the conclusion of the 2020/21 campaign.
One topic of discussion was potential players which the Bhoys can target in this summer’s transfer market.
Would Ryan Gauld be a good buy for Celtic?
Yes
No
A player which received particular praise from Haggerty was SC Farense midfielder Ryan Gauld, who has been playing out in Portugal for around seven years – with a half-season loan move to Hibernian in 2019 (via Transfermarkt).
The 25-year-old has had an impressive season for Farense this season having racked up nine goals and seven assists in the Portuguese top flight.
The £4.5m-rated ace is set to become a free agent with his current deal with the Portuguese outfit ending at the end of June and Haggerty believes he is a player Celtic should be eyeing up this summer. Although, it has been reported that he has offers from over 30 clubs.
He said: “For me, it’s a no-brainer for Celtic to just inquire because he is now a massive person of interest.
“Not just to Celtic but seemingly, there was a story up here that he’s now got 31 clubs interested in him and some concrete offers, as well.
“And the player I’m talking about is Ryan Gauld, who was unlucky not to make the Scotland squad for the Euros.”
TIF Thoughts on Gauld’s future…
Gauld has largely played abroad for most of his career in men’s football. It will be interesting to see if he would be open to a return to Scotland having left Dundee United in 2014 (via Transfermarkt).
There would be a huge difference in lifestyle in leaving Portugal for Scotland, however, Haggerty feels Gauld was unlucky to miss out on the national squad for the Euros, so would a move back to Scotland boost his chances for the future?
Ultimately, Celtic remain without a permanent manager and we’re sure whoever is selected for the vacant role will bring his own transfer targets to the table.
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