Shamrock Rovers defender Liam Scales is set to complete a transfer to Celtic by the end of the month, as reported by the Irish Mirror.
The Lowdown: Celtic eye defensive reinforcements
Starting to string together impressive consistency levels after four wins on the trot, Hoops boss Ange Postecoglou will be keen to recruit further reinforcements in key areas to ensure that his squad has sufficient depth to challenge for the Premiership title.
Centre-back has been an area of particular concern for the Celts, with Ko Itakura and and Cameron Carter-Vickers pursued in recent weeks [Daily Record].
However, Scales seems to be the most likely defender to become the latest Parkhead import, owing to recent claims in the Irish media.
The Latest: Scales said to be Parkhead-bound by the end of the month
After impressing in Shamrock Rovers’ 1-0 victory over Drogheda United, the Irish Mirror has claimed that the 23-year-old is preparing to finalise his move to Celtic imminently.
The fee reported is expected to be €600,000 (£510,000) plus add-ons, whilst a deal is mooted to be on the cards before the close of the Scottish transfer window on 31 August.
Southampton were also linked with a swoop for his services, but he is set to choose the Hoops as a consequence of Postecoglou viewing him as another quality option in the first-team backline [Irish Mirror].
The Verdict: Scales would be a low-risk signing
Scales would be an inexpensive signing who could develop considerably in Scotland. Capable of filling in at centre-back, left-back and left midfield, his versatility and passing ability would be an asset to Celtic moving forward.
He has performed admirably for his current employers so far this season, registering six goal contributions in 26 appearances in all competitions with three goals and three assists [Transfermarkt].
Once labelled as “remarkable” by Irish Examiner writer Graham Cummins [The Celtic Star], Celtic should look to put the finishing touches to the move for the 23-year-old and duly secure another rising talent.
In other news, a Premier League defender has signalled his desire for a Parkhead switch. Read all about it here.