Much of the discussion has centred on Celtic needing to add fresh faces this month.
However, there is also the question of players potentially heading for the exit door. And would Celtic sanction the departure of any major stars?
When Brendan Rodgers was at the helm last January, Kyogo Furuhashi departed for Rennes, catching many off guard. By that stage, though, the Hoops had the league title effectively secured, despite still battling in the Champions League.
One name raised to Peter Grant on Go Radio was Reo Hatate, who has not been at his best or reached his usual high standards for quite some time.
Is Reo Hatate’s spell at Celtic nearing its conclusion?
Hatate has been among Celtic’s standout performers since joining the club in 2022 under Ange Postecoglou.
Grant suggested on Go Radio that the current interim boss, O’Neill, would have already ‘sensed’ that Hatate’s time in Glasgow could be drawing to a close, even if a move does not materialise during the January transfer window.
It is difficult to see Hatate leaving this month, but it would not be shocking if he were to depart in the summer.
Paul Cooney: “Hatate is being mentioned again; it’s probably time for him to go somewhere else. You can’t afford to let him go just now.”
Grant: “I think the thing is, you sense that. That’s where Martin will come to the fore. He’s an experienced manager. He sees it around the dressing room. He gets the feel of the players. He won’t say too much, but he will know what’s going on in the training ground.
“What’s his attitude like? He has had all these experienced players. Martin likes to bring in ready-made players – I think that’s what Martin will be looking for now.”
Hatate’s Celtic career in numbers
When all is said and done, Hatate will be remembered as a Celtic legend, a supporters’ favourite, and a footballer who, at his peak, was an absolute delight to watch.
But there is a growing sense that, for a prolonged period now, his displays have fallen short, and the time may be right to move forward and refresh the squad.
Hopefully, the Japanese maestro can bow out with one final flourish, helping to steer Celtic to the Premiership title.
Games: 172
Goals: 31
Assists: 31
Trophies: 8