Podcaster Brian Degning has claimed that 22-year-old defensive midfielder Vinicius Souza, who plays for Belgian side KV Mechelen, would be the perfect signing for Celtic this summer as they need a player in that position ahead of next season.
Celtic are continuing their rebuild under manager Ange Postecoglou after returning to Scottish Premiership glory last season, beating out their bitter rivals to a 52nd title in the club’s history.
The Hoops have been linked with a number of players this summer, including Cameron Carter-Vickers and Jota, who were both a part of their title-winning side last season as they sought permanent moves to the Scottish giants, with Carter-Vickers already making the move in recent weeks.
A new rumour has emerged in the form of Souza, and according to Degning, he would be the perfect signing for the side as they need a defensive midfielder to push Callum McGregor and Reo Hatate further up the pitch.
Speaking on the A Celtic State of Mind podcast, he said: “The person that I’m most excited about that we’re linked with currently – Vinicius Souza. Brazilian, 23 years old, defensive-mid, big unit, very, very strong defensively, and I think that’s what we need.
“I’ve said before a few times, I think Callum McGregor’s best position’s a bit further forward, kind of where Hatate plays, as a sort of box-to-box.
“I know he sits in the six, but I do have concerns sometimes that he’s not as strong defensively as he is going forward. So having a really strong presence in there would be good.
“Especially since you’ve lost Rogic who’s 6’2″, Bitton, who’s 6’4”.
“So, I do think we need a bit of physicality, and Vinicius – big Vinny – looks as if he can provide it.”
TIF Thoughts on Souza joining Celtic…
Celtic have climbed back to the top of Scottish football and in doing so have claimed a place in the Champions League for next season, and therefore need to continue to build around Postecoglou’s vision, which so far has aided them well.
Last season, Souza bagged two goals and one assist in 32 appearances in all competitions for Mechelen, while averaging an impressive 3.8 tackles, two interceptions, 2.9 clearances and 4.1 long balls, with a 70.3% passing accuracy (as per WhoScored).
With this in mind, Souza could be a great new addition to the Bhoys for next season, as he is a physical presence in the engine room and with his tackles and interceptions record from last season, he may be able to allow the likes of McGregor and Hatate to push further up the pitch without comprising their defence.
Should Celtic sign Souza?
Yes
No
