Celtic faces a period of impending change as Brendan Rodgers looks to shape the team in his own vision, with potential squad alterations on the horizon in the upcoming transfer windows.
As the summer approaches, anticipation mounts among the Parkhead faithful about new signings donning the iconic green and white colors. However, this period also signals farewells, such as the retirement of seasoned goalkeeper Joe Hart at the end of the season.
Avoiding the pitfall of allowing contracts to expire without resolution is a priority for Rodgers to prevent complications regarding the future of key assets within the team.
With that in mind, let’s delve into three pressing contract situations that Celtic must address before they escalate into significant concerns at Parkhead.
Firstly, the club should prioritize securing a contract extension for left-back Greg Taylor. Surprisingly, Taylor is set to become a free agent in the summer of 2025, raising questions about his long-term commitment to the club. Despite his integral role in the team, a new deal for Taylor has not been widely discussed, potentially leaving a crucial position vulnerable.
Having amassed an impressive 163 appearances, along with eight goals and 25 assists, Taylor’s contributions have been significant. With the departure of Alexandro Bernabei, Taylor stands as the sole senior left-back, underscoring the importance of retaining him for continuity and squad depth, especially considering his homegrown status.
Next, Celtic faces a decision regarding the emerging talent of Liam Scales. The defender’s impactful rise from a fringe player to a regular starter has put him in the spotlight, prompting talks of a contract extension. However, negotiations have hit a standstill, leaving his future uncertain.
Scales’ impressive statistics, including an average of 5.8 aerial duels won and 1.6 tackles per game, highlight his defensive prowess. Notably, his consistent performances in both domestic and European competitions underline his value to the team. With his contract expiring in 2025, Celtic must act promptly to secure the promising defender’s services to avoid protracted speculation about his future role at the club.
In conclusion, addressing these contract situations promptly is vital for Celtic to maintain stability and continuity within the squad. As Rodgers continues to shape the team, resolving these matters will be crucial in ensuring a seamless transition and sustained success for the club in the future.
James McCarthy remains a registered player with Celtic. Despite not featuring for the senior team this season, the 33-year-old is making appearances for the B team in the Lowland League. His chances of returning to the first team are slim, as acknowledged by sources like Transfermarkt.
Earlier this year, Celtic declined a loan offer from Volos FC in Greece due to a disagreement over his wages, reported to be £14,000 per week until 2025. It seems inevitable that McCarthy will depart from the club either in the upcoming summer transfer window or by the following year.