Celtic’s Update: Another Club submits offer for Celtic’s top player, ready to sign the player permanently… Contract talks have began, and the move is about to be completed.

Celtic’s Gustaf Lagerbielke Targeted by Lecce in Loan Deal

Serie A club Lecce has reportedly made a loan offer with an option to buy for Celtic’s Swedish center-back Gustaf Lagerbielke. According to Sky Sports News journalist Anthony Joseph, this move comes as Lecce seeks to bolster its defensive line before the end of the summer transfer window.

Interest from Heerenveen and Lecce

Earlier in the week, Lagerbielke appeared close to joining Eredivisie club Heerenveen on loan, with advanced talks taking place. However, Lecce’s late entry into the negotiations has complicated the situation. The Italian club, which had previously shown interest in Lagerbielke during the January transfer window and earlier this summer, is now trying to secure the defender’s services.

Lagerbielke joined Celtic last summer from Elfsborg in a £3 million deal, but he has struggled to secure a regular spot under manager Brendan Rodgers, making only ten appearances across all competitions. Given his limited playing time, Celtic is open to letting the 24-year-old move on, and it may ultimately be up to Lagerbielke to decide between Heerenveen and Lecce. The player’s priority is likely to find a club where he can play regularly, which could enhance his chances of returning to the Swedish national team after making an appearance earlier this year.

Celtic’s Defensive Depth

Celtic’s willingness to offload Lagerbielke is understandable given their depth in the center-back position. With several options available at the back, manager Brendan Rodgers seems prepared to let the Swede leave, especially if it means regular first-team football elsewhere. Lecce’s loan offer, which includes an option to buy, could give the Italian club an advantage in securing the player’s signature.

Potential Departures from Celtic

Lagerbielke is not the only player who could be leaving Celtic before the transfer window closes. There is speculation surrounding Japan international striker Kyogo Furuhashi, who has been linked with a move to Manchester City. Additionally, Denmark international midfielder Matt O’Riley is expected to return to England, with a possible transfer to Brighton & Hove Albion.

Meanwhile, Celtic winger Mikey Johnston is in discussions with Sheffield United. Johnston, who spent last season on loan at West Bromwich Albion, appears to be another player that Celtic is willing to part with. The potential exits of Lagerbielke, Furuhashi, O’Riley, and Johnston indicate that Rodgers is reshaping his squad to better fit his vision for the club.

Lagerbielke’s Potential Move

For Lagerbielke, a move to either Lecce or Heerenveen could be an opportunity to revive his career after a challenging spell at Celtic. Regular playing time would not only benefit his club career but also keep him in contention for future call-ups to the Swedish national team. As the transfer window nears its conclusion, the 24-year-old will need to weigh his options carefully to find the best environment to continue his development.

Conclusion

Celtic’s transfer activity in the final days of the summer window highlights the club’s efforts to streamline the squad under Brendan Rodgers. The potential departure of Gustaf Lagerbielke, along with other key players, signals a period of transition for the Scottish Premiership champions. Whether Lagerbielke chooses Lecce or Heerenveen, his move will likely be driven by the desire for consistent first-team football and the opportunity to prove himself at a high level. As the window closes, Celtic’s focus will remain on finding the right balance between incoming and outgoing transfers to ensure a successful season ahead.