Celtic’s worst case window: Rodgers U-turn backfires, £6m target poached and star duo depart

With only goalkeepers Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo joining the team thus far this transfer window, Celtic fans are still eagerly expecting the club’s first outfield addition.

It is hoped that fresh faces will be visible ahead of their Scottish Premiership debut on Sunday against Kilmarnock. The Hornets have until August 30 to complete their transfer business. Brendan Rodgers is eager to add a left-back to challenge Greg Taylor and a few new attackers before the market ends, so there may be some surprise events before then.

Celtic has to strengthen their team in light of Rangers’ recent squad makeover if they hope to keep their dominant position over the Light Blues. Celtic won the domestic double last season and may have earned the final Champions League spot in a while. We looked at what a perfect summer would offer last week, but here’s a peek at what Rodgers might experience in an unsatisfying window.

Hatate moves to the south.

Leicester City is apparently keeping an eye on Reo Hatate and is considering a sizable bid for the 26-year-old. With four years remaining on his deal, Celtic would have a lot of leverage to ask for a high price.

Hatate finished the season with five assists and three goals despite a season marred by injuries. Hatate is unlikely to be sold during this window if O’Riley leaves.

Charles declines O’Riley trade

Shea Charles of Southampton is apparently being considered as a possible addition to any trade that would see Matt O’Riley transfer to St Mary’s. Numerous teams have expressed interest in O’Riley; but, stand-alone offers from the Saints and Atlanta have both been turned down. Also fond of the 23-year-old is Juventus.

Southampton was preparing a proposal of £20 million for the international player from Denmark. A cash-plus-player agreement would be a workable middle ground, but that would require Charles to consent to transfer north just one year after coming from Manchester City to join Russell Martin’s squad.

Charles would be O’Riley’s ideal immediate replacement, but if an agreement cannot be made, it will not only cast doubt on O’Riley’s future but also increase Rodgers’ search for a suitable replacement for the Denmark international.

£11 million pair pilfered

Tommy Conway, a 21-year-old star for Bristol City who declined a new deal, is apparently being watched by both Celtic and Rangers. The Old Firm couple may have to wait until next summer because he will be available on a free transfer (although due to his age, compensation will be necessary).

But it makes sense that the Championship team wants to sell quickly, and Middlesbrough is first in line. Celtic will need to move swiftly if they are to sign Conway, who is allegedly valued up to £5 million.

Celtic is currently pursuing Michel-Ange Balikwisha, a £6 million Belgian winger. The Hoops face heavy competition, with the 23-year old-forward being pursued by various clubs around Europe, including sides in France.

For a U-turn, Rodgers pays.

Less than a year after joining Celtic for £3 million from Elfsborg, Gustaf Lagerbielke may be leaving the club. Last January, injuries to Stephen Welsh and Cameron Carter-Vickers prompted Rodgers to renounce the Swedish defender’s loan to Lecce.

Celtic may have to take a lower offer for Lagerbielke than they would have in January, or else they run the risk of not being able to sell him at all, given that he only made 10 appearances in the previous season. Rumour has it that Parma and Hellas Verona are also considering him.