Celtic ready to complete Andy Irving deal ‘next week’ – ‘it’s the only option’
Celtic have been backed to complete the signing of West Ham midfielder Andy Irving within the next week as they push to agree a deal.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson explained that the 25-year-old is keen to play regular football this season and has opened the door to a return to the Scottish Premiership.
The one-cap Scotland international has attracted interest from both Celtic and Rangers this summer, amid a growing feeling that he will leave West Ham.
Former West Ham scout Mick Brown told Football Insider in June that Celtic will step up their chase for Irving as they aim to strengthen their midfield this summer.
Brendan Rodgers‘ side are believed to have been keeping a close eye on his situation at the London Stadium and are now prepared to accelerate their efforts.
Brown told Football Insider that Celtic are prepared to back Brendan Rodgers in the market as he aims to strengthen his squad to add to their success.
Celtic push to agree new signing before Champions League clash
This article contains exclusive comment from Paul Robinson, a football pundit and former England, Tottenham and Leeds goalkeeper.
Football Insider revealed in April that Rodgers will demand Celtic back him financially as he aims to build on their success and compete in the Champions League.
Rodgers has since confessed that he is hopeful of adding to his squad before the Champions League playoff tie against Kairat Almaty on 20 August. [via BBC]
As a result, Robinson explained that talks over Irving’s arrival could accelerate as they aim to complete his signing inside the next week.
“From the player’s point of view, he’s at that stage in his career,” he told Football Insider.
“He’s gone to West Ham where he’s not really had that much game time and he’s going to want to play.
“I think he’s a really good player, there’s a top player in there, and he’s one of these players who will get better if he plays regularly and plays every week.
“A move away from West Ham seems the only option if he’s going to get that.
“The way Graham Potter rotates his side and changes players, it doesn’t look like he’s going to get much game time.
“Potter wants to rejuvenate his squad, and Celtic are looking at him, so that could be one we see get done in the next week or so.”
Brendan Rodgers to be backed with four new signings
Rodgers has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the way Celtic have done their business this summer and is determined to add to his squad.
Football Insider revealed on 12 August that Celtic are well placed to agree four new signings before the window closes in a transfer frenzy late in the window.
The Hoops have made six signings so far this summer, but have spent less than £5million in total, with the squad still in need of strengthening.
As a result, Football Insider revealed that Celtic want a winger, centre-back, and striker before the window closes as they aim to support Rodgers’ plans.
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