HATEM ABD ELHAMED looks set to leave Celtic in January, with a host of Israeli clubs supposedly interested. The right-back has been living alone in Glasgow with his wife and child opting to return to Israel due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Celtic will need to replace Elhamed and strengthen their right back role with Frimpong happier playing further forward, a more defensive minded defender could be high on Neil Lennon and Nick Hammond’s list to Santa.
Here’s are some names that might be on Hammond’s scouting list for a new right back…
1. ADAM SMITH – BOURNEMOUTH
Bournemouth’s Adam Smith is entering the final few months of his contract with the Championship side and brings Premier League experience with him. At 29-years-old, Smith is probably at his peak as a defender and could be fancying a move if Bournemouth fail to get promoted.
Celtic would be likely able to negotiate a deal for the right back should he wish to join the club in January. Smith is more of a defender than a wingback. He defends well in one on ones and has a turn of pace that mean he’d be able to regain ground should any wingers get beyond him.
2. SILVAN WIDMER – FC BASEL
Silvan Widmer of FC Basel was linked with Celtic in 2019 before Elhamed was signed. He was also linked after Elhamed signed with Celtic opting to go for Moritz Bauer and the unknown Jeremie Frimpong from Manchester City instead. However, Widmer is a pedigree that would excite Celtic.
He is an attacking full back, who can play in midfield as well as defence. In 323 career appearances, he has 45 assists and 28 goals. He would likely cost around the £3-4m mark, as Basel paid Udinese almost £5m for him in 2013. Although, he has got 18 months remaining on his contract, Celtic may be able to negotiate a decent price for the Swiss Internationalist.
The 27-year-old was linked with Bundesliga side Schalke in the summer but no deal transpired and Celtic could swoop to bring the defender to the club.
3. AURELIO BUTA – ROYAL ANTWERP
Aurélio Buta from Royal Antwerp is another impressive option that is still in his formative years but could make a splash with Celtic. The 23-year-old has six months left on his deal in Belgium, albeit the club have an option of a further year. Wolves failed in a £5m bid for the player 12 months ago with the player opting to remain in Belgium. However, the former Benfica youth prospect could look at moving up the rungs of football with a move to the Scottish Champions. Buta is aggressive, attacking and quick. He would probably resemble Jeremie Frimpong in terms of style – keen to get forward and maybe more of a wingback.
Stephen O’Donnell, Scotland RB, available for nothing in January. Safe bet for me, can defend a good out ball.