Celtic transfer news: Vasilis Barkas tipped to lead exodus – and could exit in weeks
Alan Hutton has suggested Vasilis Barkas could lead an exodus of players out of Celtic this summer.
The former Scotland international, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested Ange Postecoglou would want to “rectify” his “very bloated” squad at the end of the season after bringing in five new signings last month.
As reported by the Daily Record last Friday (28 January), Swedish side IFK Gothenberg have considered a loan move for Barkas, 27.
Postecoglou confirmed he is working to get some players out the door temporarily, though stopped short of confirming if Barkas is among those.
The transfer market in Sweden is open until the end of March, with the new season kicking off in April.
Celtic also still have the unfavoured Boli Bolingoli and Albian Ajeti on their books.
Hutton suggested there could be several exits come the summer window.
Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “I think it is very bloated.
“They did try to get the likes of Barkas out and it didn’t quite work. Whether it’s something to do with fees or personal terms or whatever.
“It is a bloated squad, especially when you think of Ange Postecoglou and what he’s added. He’s done well in the window to bring different players in.
“It’s probably something that he’s looking at for the summer. He’s obviously identified the players that he doesn’t need at this moment in time.
“I think he’ll look to rectify that in the summer window.”
Barkas has played just twice for Celtic since Postecoglou’s arrival.
His last appearance came in the Boxing Day win over St Johnstone.
The Greece international is behind first-choice shot-stopper Joe Hart and Scott Bain in the Parkhead pecking order.
In other news, ex-Fifa official makes SFA demand after controversy involving Celtic star.