Brendan Rodgers is looking to strengthen attacking options before the transfer window closes and 24-year-old Aaron Connolly is one of several options being considered…
The Celtic manager is actively seeking to strengthen his attacking options as the transfer window approaches its final days. Rodgers has been clear about his intention to have three strikers available to handle the demands of a congested fixture schedule this season.
The recent addition of Adam Idah, who rejoined Celtic in a £9.5 million deal including add-ons, has bolstered the squad. Idah made his second debut for the club against Hibs in the 3-1 League Cup win on Sunday, adding depth to Rodgers’ forward line.
In the same match, Daizen Maeda started and found the back of the net twice, while Kyogo Furuhashi was notably absent after suffering a shoulder injury re-lapse at Easter Road. Post-match on Sunday, Rodgers disclosed that Furuhashi has been managing a persistent shoulder issue for some time but so fas has chosen to forgo surgery.
With Furuhashi’s condition being carefully managed, Rodgers is keen to introduce more competition for the striker position. Reports, including one on Football Scotland, suggest that Celtic is monitoring potential recruits from the free-agent market to enhance their attacking depth.
Aaron Connolly is a potential Celtic signing
Among the potential targets is 24-year-old Aaron Connolly, who is currently weighing his options after leaving Hull City. The Galway-born forward, who scored eight goals in 30 appearances last season, has attracted interest from clubs south of the border as well.
Rodgers’ desire to have a trio of strikers is underscored by the departure of Rocco Vata to Watford earlier this summer. While Connolly is slightly older than Vata, the opportunity to join Celtic and compete for playing time could be exactly what the Irishman needs to reignite his career. With Kyogo and Idah already established as key players in the squad, there is room for another forward to provide reliable cover.
Connolly’s talent is evident
Connolly’s talent is evident, with 45 Premier League appearances for Brighton & Hove Albion and nine international caps for Ireland. However, his recent loan spells at Luton Town, Middlesbrough, and Venezia have been underwhelming, raising the question of whether Celtic could provide the stability and opportunity for regular first-team football that Connolly requires.
As the transfer window draws to a close, it remains to be seen if Connolly will find his way to Celtic, but the prospect is certainly one to watch.
