Nat Phillips tipped to make permanent Celtic move soon after terms agreed – pundit
Nat Phillips could convert his Celtic loan to a permanent deal in January.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Rangers defender Alan Hutton suggested Liverpool may want to offload Phillips permanently at the end of the year.
The Hoops confirmed the signing of the 26-year-old on a loan deal running until January 2024.
Brendan Rodgers was in desperate need of defensive cover after star centre-back Cameron Carter-Vickers picked up an injury that is due to keep him out of action until the end of October.
New signing, and replacement for Carl Starfelt, Maik Nawrocki is also on the sidelines after suffering an injury with Stephen Welsh out for a longer period with an ankle problem.
When asked if Celtic opted for a half-season loan with the hope of having all their centre-backs fit by January, Hutton told Football Insider: “Possibly, that is one way of looking at it.
“But it could also be from Liverpool’s point of view – do they want to sell him on? Do they want a fee in? Could that happen in January? Was it close to happening in the summer?
“There could be multiple things going on in the background. If he kicks on and does well it could possibly be a permanent move for Celtic we will wait and see.“
Phillips has made 29 appearances for Jurgen Klopp’s side and has scored one goal and one assist in those outings.
The defender’s current contract at Anfield runs until 2025.
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