All the transfer talk concerning Scottish champions Celtic appears to be centred around whether or not Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley will make the move to Parkhead.
What’s the word?
Recent reports have suggested that the Old Firm giants are interested in signing the 28-year-old before the September deadline, albeit with a host of Premier League clubs also in the race for his signature.
Journalist Pete O’Rourke – speaking to GIVEMESPORT – has given his backing to the idea of the Englishman joining the Glasgow side this summer, albeit while outlining the potential risk that could come with it due to his failings at Stamford Bridge of late.
The transfer insider stated: “It would be an exciting signing, just because of who he is. He’s a top player, he’s played in the Premier League for Everton and Chelsea, although his career has stalled in the last few years, so it would be a gamble in some respects if Celtic were to sign him.”
The 33-cap playmaker – who has just a year remaining on his current deal in west London – appears to be surplus to requirements under Thomas Tuchel after having not been handed a shirt number for the new season.
Sensation
While there may be those at Celtic Park questioning the wisdom of signing a player who made just a solitary league start last season, the overriding feeling seemingly mirrors that of O’Rourke, with huge excitement as to the potential impact he could have in the Scottish Premiership.
Pundit Kevin Campbell has certainly given his backing to the switch, stating that: “I think he’ll be a sensation up there I really do. A strong side like Celtic, the way they play, his dynamism from the midfield, the way he can dribble, shoot, beat players, I think he’d be a revelation at Celtic.
“I think that could be good for him. He could go up there for a year, do the business, and then he’s a free agent. I think he’ll do great up there.“
As has proven the case with Barkley’s former Three Lions teammate, Joe Hart, a move north of the border can well inspire a new lease of life for a player of undoubted talent who is undergoing a tricky spell in their career.
While it has been an extended stint without regular football for the former Everton man of late, having made six just league outings last season, he has still managed to rack up a respectable tally of 12 goals and 11 assists in his 100 appearances in the English capital thus far.
Equally, in what was arguably his only regular run in the side under Maurizio Sarri during the 2018/19 season, the £10.8m-rated ace recorded an impressive haul of five goals and six assists in 48 games in all competitions, proving that perhaps all he may need is the faith of a manager.
Once likened to compatriot Wayne Rooney during his time at Goodison Park – where he netted 27 goals and provided 28 assists in 179 games – the £96k-per-week man no doubt has unquestionable natural talent, with the Liverpool-born gem simply needing a new stage to show it.
If handed the chance, he could well become a ‘sensation’ for Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou.