Lecce, in dire need of defensive reinforcements due to Ahmed Touba’s AFCON involvement, is reportedly eyeing Celtic’s Gustaf Lagerbielke to fill the gap in their central defense. With limited reliable options in Federico Baschirotto and Marin Pongracic, Roberto D’Aversa seeks depth.

According to Sky Sport Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio, Lecce has initiated discussions regarding a dry loan deal for Lagerbielke. This proposed arrangement would keep the 23-year-old defender at Stadio Via Del Mare until June 2024, with his return to Scotland slated for the season’s end.

While Celtic seems open to loaning out the promising centre-back, negotiations face hurdles due to the financial implications for Lecce. Despite the temporary nature of the deal, acquiring Lagerbielke is deemed costly for the Italian side.

Lagerbielke’s season boasts nine appearances across various competitions, including a notable goal scored against Feyenoord in a Champions League clash last December. His international debut for Sweden in January 2023, where he netted a goal in two appearances, further enhances his promising stature.”