CELTIC have made an enquiry with Spanish giants Atletico Madrid about the availability of right winger Rodrigo Riquelme. The 20-year-old is entering his final year with Diego Simeone’s side but is expected to extend his contract should he get a loan move.
Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo claims that Celtic and Real Betis are two clubs that have asked about the Spanish attacker.
“And then there is Rodrigo Riquelme . He ends his contract in 2021 and Atlético wants to extend it. The 20-year-old wants minutes in a higher category and can also be loaned if he extends his bond. Teams like Celtic or Betis have already knocked on his door.”
Should Riquelme make a move to Celtic, he arrives to compete with James Forrest on the right side of attack which would allow Forrest well earned rest. There is also an argument that Forrest played his best football was in the 2017/18 season when he kept Patrick Roberts on the bench.
Celtic also boast and impressive development location for young footballers with recent exports Kieran Tierney and Moussa Dembele playing at a high, consistent level following moves abroad.
Part of Celtic’s business model appears to be sign high quality loan players that we normally couldn’t afford and offer them European football and the platform to improve in order to aid their career – whilst winning trophies for the club.
