Celtic are closing in on a fifth January signing with Charlotte FC midfielder Riley McGree believed to be closing in on a move to Parkhead.
That’s according to the Daily Mail, who claim that Celtic are set to win the race to sign McGree this month.
It’s stated that Celtic are closing in on a deal, ahead of Middlesbrough and Nottingham Forest.
McGree is owned by Charlotte FC but has been on loan with Birmingham for 18 months, becoming a fan favourite at St Andrews.
McGree has bagged three goals and two assists for Birmingham, and whilst it was expected that he would return to star for Charlotte FC, he is now Celtic-bound.
Who is Celtic target McGree?
McGree, 23, was a hot prospect in Australia with Adelaide United before heading to Belgium with Club Brugge.
With no appearances for Club Brugge, the move didn’t quite work out. After loan spells at Newcastle Jets and Melbourne City, McGree rejoined Adelaide United permanently.
McGree’s best moment came in 2018, scoring a stunning scorpion kick that resulted in being nominated for the Puskas Award.
Now with seven caps for Australia, McGree appears to have a big future ahead of him – and Celtic boss Postecoglou will be well aware of his potential.
McGree adds depth for Postecoglou
With David Turnbull injured, Celtic needed to add another playmaker to help Postecoglou’s setup.
Yes, Celtic have Tom Rogic too, but adding another number 10 who can play in a couple of different roles was key.
McGree can do exactly that. The Celtic-bound ace has played as a number 10, a central midfielder and as a wide player at Birmingham.
That versatility is ideal for Postecoglou, and Birmingham boss Lee Bowyer has branded McGree a ‘luxury player’ that is also willing to put in the work.
That bit of magic in McGree’s game could make him a Celtic hero – and especially if he’ll put in the hard yards too.
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