Celtic have been cited as having an interest in re-signing Paddy Roberts. The 26-year-old is currently plying his trade with EFL Championship side Sunderland. However, a report has suggested that Tony Mowbray may look to bring a new winger in should Roberts move on.
According to The Sun’s Alan Nixon, Roberts is attracting interest from Southampton and Celtic ahead of the final two weeks of the transfer window. It is unlikely that Brendan Rodgers will sanction a move for the player but he does know him well.
The player has had an unfortunate few seasons being loaned around by Man City. Girona, Norwich, Middlesbrough, Derby and Troyes all hosted the tricky winger for spells but Sunderland offers Roberts the first stability since leaving Celtic in 2018 after two-and-a-half years.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – SEPTEMBER 23: Patrick Roberts of Celtic attempts to get past Graham Dorrans of Rangers and Lee Hodson of Rangers during the Ladbrokes Scottish Premiership match between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox Stadium on September 23, 2017 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
Roberts scored 18 goals in 79 appearances in Scotland and was very impressive under Brendan Rodgers in the Invincible season. The move to Sunderland appears to have offered Roberts the platform to play first-team football and the chance to regain confidence. The winger was involved as they missed out of promotion in the play-offs.
He had a successful two-and-a-half-year leaving with seven trophies and the adoration of the support. Roberts has business interests in Glasgow and if Celtic had made an offer, he would certainly have been keen on a return.
The likelihood is that there is little in this rumour. Celtic have moved on from Roberts and despite the promise that he showed in his time, he really has not kicked on to the next level.
Celtic are already strong in the wide areas and the re-signing of Roberts would be seen as a potential step back for the club. Notwithstanding the clear talents of Roberts, Celtic should be looking elsewhere.