Celtic could well have Hibernian defender Ryan Porteous ‘on the list’ of transfer targets after being linked with a move next year, according to BBC pundit Alan Hutton.

The Lowdown: Porteous linked to Parkhead

The Scottish Premiership star has now entered the final 12 months of his contract with Lee Johnson’s side, and despite being offered a new deal, his future at Easter Road remains uncertain.

Hibs legend Tam McManus recently suggested that the 23-year-old would be a ‘great’ fit for the Hoops, and believed that they would be open to landing him on a free transfer in 2023.

The Latest: Hutton’s comments

Speaking to Football Insider, Hutton claimed that whilst Porteous has all the attributes that Celtic would be looking for, another centre-back being added to the ranks is not what they need.

“I think he is a really good player, he has shown that at such a young age.

“Do Celtic really need him at this moment in time? I am not so sure. I think the partnership with [Moritz] Jenz and [Cameron] Carter-Vickers is very strong, [Carl] Starfelt is there and [Stephen] Welsh as well.

“They have got a lot of competition within that area. But you never shut the door on a player that can come in and enhance your squad.

“So I am sure Ange will be looking at certain areas. He could possibly be on the list but he definitely has the attributes to step up.“

[web_stories_embed url="https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/key-latest-celtic-updates-9/" title="Key latest Celtic updates!" poster="" width="360" height="600" align=“none"]

The Verdict: Get it done…

Ange Postecoglou does already have solid senior options at his disposal, but bringing Porteous into the frame surely wouldn’t hurt, especially as he’ll soon be a free agent.

The ‘composed’ defender, as dubbed by Hearts captain Craig Gordon, averages 3.8 clearances and wins 2.9 of his aerial duels per league game, not to mention that he already has two goals to his name this season (WhoScored).

Porteous would provide another excellent option at the back, and you can never have too many players available given the depth required to fight on four fronts.