Celtic are facing competition for Preston North End defender Ben Davies. The 25-year-old is entering his last few months with the Championship side and is the subject of interest from a host of teams. However, Celtic have an advantage in that they can agree terms for the new season this month whilst English teams would need to wait until the expiry of his deal.
Sky Sports have noted that a number of clubs including Udinese, Bournemouth and Genk are interested in bringing the left-footed central defender to their clubs meaning Celtic will face a challenge if they are to secure his services.
Udinese are set to rival Celtic, Sheffield United, Bournemouth & Genk for Preston North End's Ben Davies.
He was offered a new contract at PNE, but has not signed it. His current deal expires in the summer.
Udinese, Celtic & Genk can do pre-contracts.
— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) January 5, 2021
With over 120 appearances in the Championship with Preston, Davies is likely to want a challenge in a new setting and Celtic can offer him more in terms of European football and the opportunity to compete for trophies.Celtic are likely to need defensive options come the summer with Shane Duffy’s loan deal ending as well as Kris Ajer likely to be the subject of further transfer interest. Davies would be a good signing but now it appears that he has a decision to make.
Celtic have already made a move for Davies’ PNE teammate Ben Pearson on a pre-contract. The ex-Man Utd kid will be available in the summer after failing to agree a new deal with Alex Neil’s side.