Hutton backs Celtic to sign Smith in beat-the-deadline deal
Alan Hutton has backed Celtic to push for a deal to sign Dundee United starlet Kerr Smith before the transfer deadline.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Scotland defender insisted Hoops fans would be thrilled to see their club in the hunt for a “standout” youngster.
As reported by the Scottish Sun (23rd August), Celtic are keen on signing the 16-year-old centre-back but face competition.
Southampton have reportedly already tabled two bids for Smith.
Leeds, Leicester and Crystal Palace are also said to be interested.
Hutton heralded the Hoops for looking to recruit the best young talent in the country.
Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “I think you have to look forward. Any kid at 16 that’s had first-team experience, you’re going to sit up and take notice.
“It’s an area where I do think Celtic need strengthening. This would be one for the future. We’re not going to sit here and say he’s going to be a first-team regular now.
“If you’re playing at this level at 16, I think it’s a massive standout. It doesn’t surprise me that teams like Celtic (are interested).
“It’s unfair, maybe. They kind of pick these kids up and try and develop them more. It’s better to see as a fan, it’s good to see them looking to the future.
“They’re looking to bring in people at a certain age to build them up, get them better.
“There’s an opportunity there to produce a young, talented footballer who can move on and go up the higher levels. It’s nice to see and I think the fans will be happy – not the Dundee United ones though.”
Smith has already played seven times for United’s senior side.
In other news, pundit has named Celtic star key to knocking Rangers off their perch.