Another day, another transfer story.
This time it’s not from Japan but a bit closer to home.
As Celtic look to build their squad for not only this season, but next, many fans and pundits reckon that Ange Postecoglou should still be focusing on building the back four, even although Celtic have the best defensive record in the league.
But, then, an injury to Carl Starfelt and the fact the Christopher Julien is still out of the picture, shows how short the Hoops are for quality cover at the back.
Speaking on Go Radio, Mark Guidi and Barry Ferguson were running the rule over Hearts central defender John Souttar when Guidi said, “Hearts have potentially for me, if he keeps going, John Souttar is a £5m defender.”
And Ferguson carried that on by claiming that Celtic could be ‘sniffing around’ the 25 year old, “When I watched John Souttar three or four years ago, I was thinking physically, I don’t think he’s strong enough to be a top centre half.
“Obviously he’s been out long term.
“He’s clearly went into the gym and bulked himself up. He’s not lost any of his pace. He’s got great feet.
“He can play the ball, he can pass the ball. Short passes, long passes. He is quick. Now he’s powerful.
“So he’s got all the attributes in the locker be a top centre half and don’t be surprised if Rangers and Celtic are sniffing about him.”
Souttar is a very versatile player that can play right back and defensive midfielder but is strongest at the heart of the defence.
With his contract expiring in May next year, Celtic could effectively land him for a nominal fee in January or a pre contract agreement.