Viljami Sinisalo responds as Stephen Welsh pens 'special' Celtic message

Stephen Welsh has sent a final message to Celtic after his transfer to Swansea City was confirmed.

Welsh, who came through Celtic's academy, has spent the past season out on loan at Motherwell.

The 26-year-old has also had spells on loan at Greenock Morton and Mechelen in Belgium during his stay at Celtic Park.

Following his impressive season at Motherwell, who kept the most clean sheets of any club during the 2025-26 Scottish Premiership campaign, Welsh has departed Scotland to progress in his career with a move to Swansea.

Welsh has signed a two-year deal with the Swans, who finished 11th in the Championship table this season.

Having never received a senior cap for Scotland, Welsh will hope the move can also boost his international ambitions.

Stephen Welsh sends final 'thank you' message to Celtic

Following Celtic's announcement that Welsh had departed Glasgow, the defender penned a lengthy message on Instagram showing his appreciation to the club.

Welsh said that Celtic had been a "massive part" of his life, before thanking the staff at the club and his family.

Celtic fan groups, the Green Brigade and the Bhoys, got a "special mention" by Welsh, who said they always "stick by the team" during the good and bad times.

Welsh signed off his message by saying his time at Celtic had been a "real pleasure."

Goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo commented: "All the very best Welshy," alongside a four leaf clover and a green love heart.

Plenty of current and former Celtic teammates liked Welsh's post including Joe Hart, Arne Engels and Kelechi Iheanacho.

Sources have told Football Insider that Celtic will indeed look to replace Welsh in the summer transfer window with the addition of a new centre-back.

Celtic find Stephen Welsh replacement

Celtic's search for a new centre-back could lead them to sign 22-year-old Oskar Wojcik.

The Hoops have been linked with Wojcik following his impressive performances in Poland for Cracovia.

Cracovia are holding out for around £4.5million for Wojcik, who has publicly stated that he will not be leaving the club this summer unless he is guaranteed regular playing time.

If Wojcik does arrive at Celtic this summer, then either Liam Scales or Auston Trusty are likely to be dropped to the bench.