Celtic have made a strong start to the 2024-25 season after winning four games in a row in all competitions.
The Bhoys picked up their third victory in the Scottish Premiership after beating St Mirren 3-0 away from Celtic Park on Sunday in a terrible weather condition.
Celtic were without Matt O’Riley as Brendan Rodgers confirmed that the Denmark midfielder is on his way to joining Brighton.
The Hoops will have to find replacements and that too quickly. Apart from adding midfielders, Celtic also need to sign a new left-back.
Celtic have been heavily linked with a move for Liverpool’s young left-back Owen Beck, but it seems they have shifted to other targets instead.
According to Anthony Joseph, Celtic are close to securing a loan deal for Barcelona full-back Alex Valle.
The 20-year-old left-back has progressed through the youth ranks at the Catalan club but he is yet to make any senior appearances for Barcelona.
Last season, he enjoyed a successful loan spell at Levante, where he managed 20 appearances in all competitions.
He has a contract with Barcelona until 2026, and Celtic will pay a loan fee of around £1.3 million.
The Sky Sports journalist wrote on X: “Celtic are closing in on the loan signing of Barcelona left-back Alex Valle.
“It’s understood The Hoops will pay a loan fee of around £1.3m for the 20yo. Valle has agreed terms on a new contract with Barca until the summer of 2026. He spent last season on loan at Levante.”
Celtic have Greg Taylor as the only recognised left-back, and a back-up is needed. Ideally, Beck would have been a better signing but they probably haven’t been able to broker a deal for the Liverpool defender.
Celtic are also working on signing new midfielders. They have opened talks to sign Arne Engels and the player himself is keen to move to Parkhead.
