Celtic now make method for £2m star who Rangers had been anticipating to signal

Celtic have made an method to signal AEK Athens defender James Penrice, however there could possibly be competitors from Scottish Premiership rivals Rangers.

The Hoops are trying to find a brand new left-back to supply competitors for Kieran Tierney, and Penrice might match the invoice, contemplating he already has loads of expertise within the Scottish Premiership, having hung out with Patrick Thistle, Livingston and Hearts.

The 27-year-old has made 108 appearances within the high tier of Scottish soccer, displaying his attacking prowess by chipping in with 4 targets and 14 assists, which suggests he’s additionally well-suited to enjoying in additional superior areas of the pitch.

All through his profession so far, the Scot has recurrently featured in left-midfield and in the course of the park, which suggests he might fill in for different gamers when required, slightly than merely being a back-up for Tierney.

In truth, throughout his time with Hearts in the course of the 2024-25 Scottish Premiership season, the versatile defender managed to create 56 possibilities, which was the joint-highest quantity within the squad, and he has been lauded as “excellent” by former supervisor Neil Critchley.

Contemplating Tierney was additionally one of many Hoops’ finest playmakers within the league final time period, it might make sense to have an identical participant as a back-up, and Martin O’Neill‘s aspect are actually ramping up their pursuit of the AEK Athens man.

Celtic make method to signal James Penrice

In accordance with journalist Ben Jacobs, Celtic have now made an method to signal Penrice, who’s seen as an “choice to assist” Tierney subsequent season.

The Hoops making an method could also be a priority for Rangers, contemplating that they had been anticipating to win the race for the previous Hearts man, who joined AEK Athens in a £2m deal final summer season.

Marcelo Saracchi left “gutted” by Celtic departure

Celtic’s want to signal a brand new left-back stems from their failure to signal Marcelo Saracchi on a everlasting foundation, with their former loanee returning to mum or dad membership Boca Juniors earlier this month.

Nonetheless, Saracchi has made it clear that exiting Parkhead wasn’t his intention, saying: “I am penning this to say goodbye. We had an intense, stunning 12 months collectively the place we achieved so lots of our targets.

“My agent and I did completely every little thing inside our energy to make a return to Glasgow occur. I am actually gutted that I will not have the ability to proceed on the membership.

“Nonetheless, I do know our paths will cross once more sooner or later. I want you all nothing however one of the best for what’s forward. Thanks for every little thing.”

O’Neill might also be tasked with signing a brand new central midfielder this summer season, as Arne Engels has now requested to depart, amid widespread curiosity from the Premier League.