Heading into the January transfer window, it’s clear that one position in Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic team needs an upgrade more than most – right-back.
Mikael Lustig is seen as a liability in the Hoops’ defensive line these days and justifiably so. With errors in European and domestic action, it’s clear that Celtic are trying to hit a level that is now beyond the Swedish veteran.
A popular character with players in the dressing room and supporters, he is nonetheless reaching the tail-end of his career at Celtic Park. That’s especially true given his contract expires at the end of this season.
Bringing in a replacement for the important closing stages of the current campaign should be something Celtic are actively seeking.
One potential arrival could be Liverpool star Nathaniel Clyne who, as The Liverpool Echo explains this weekend, is on the verge of an exit from Anfield after falling down the pecking order in Jurgen Klopp’s squad.
Arriving as a replacement for Glen Johnson, he lost his place in the first-team after a debilitating back injury that allowed the emergence of Trent Alexander-Arnold to shine and become the clear first choice in the position.
He is a quality player though and having played just one senior match so far this season is a player in desperate need of a move, temporary or not.
Celtic may struggle to pony up the cash that could compete with other Premier League clubs potentially seeking his signature, but surely enquiring about a loan move for the second half of the season isn’t beyond us?
His current deal at Anfield runs out in 2020, so if he signed on a six month deal, it would bring him into the last year of his contract and potentially allow us to seek a permanent deal, if all goes well.
With or without Clyne, Celtic need to find a solution for the position so let’s hope January provides the answers.