Celtic: Fabrizio Romano reveals Carl Starfelt is being followed by EPL clubs

Celtic defender Carl Starfelt is reportedly being eyed for a summer transfer move by English Premier League clubs, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano. 

The Parkhead club signed the defender back in the 2021 summer transfer window from Rubin Kazan, making him Ange Postecoglou’s fifth signing for the Hoops.

Despite having over two years left on his contract at Celtic, the centre-back could be facing an early exit from the club in the coming months.

In a recent Twitter post, Romano had this to say on the matter:

“Celtic central defender Carl Starfelt, one to watch in the summer as Premier League clubs are following him as possible option for next window.

“Scottish club will try to keep him as he’s considered an important player for Celtic.”

During his time at Parkhead, the 27-year-old has made 69 appearances for Postecoglou’s side across all competitions, chipping in with two goals and two assists.

This season has seen the Sweden international play in 20 games for the Bhoys, 15 of which have been in the SPFL, where he has shown how much of a solid defensive unit he is.

For example, Starfelt has the highest average of clearances (4.9) and interceptions (1.5) per game at Celtic, as well as having the joint-highest overall performance rating at the club (7.42/10) according to WhoScored.

In addition to that, the defender also has the third-highest pass success percentage (91.3%) out of Celtic players who have started more than one league game this season.

In fact, of those to have played at least 12 times in the Scottish Premiership, only Celtic teammates Callum McGregor and Cameron Carter-Vickers have a higher pass success rate.

Taking all of this into account, it’s easy to see why clubs south of the border are apparently eyeing the Hoops star as well as why the Bhoys see him as an important figure.

Looking ahead to the next summer transfer window, it should be a top priority for Celtic to keep hold of Starfelt, or the team could find themselves significantly weakened at the back if they don’t sufficiently replace him, as the stats suggest there are perhaps few better out there in terms of the calibre the Hoops could attract.