Forget McGinn, Celtic reportedly targeting £18m De Arrascaeta proves their ambition

Follow us on Google Discover

Scottish Premiership giants Celtic are understood to be targeting a shock move for Uruguayan attacker Giorgian De Arrascaeta.

There is no doubt that John McGinn has been one of the most impressive midfielders in Scotland over the last two seasons.

The 23-year-old Hibernian talisman has shone in Scotland, attracting the interest of a Celtic side who have had two bids for him rejected already this month. But while McGinn has shone north of the border, he is a signing that will only add to Celtic’s squad depth.

Whether the Scotland international would greatly enhance Brendan Rodgers’ starting XI or perhaps give them a much better chance of success in European competition is another matter.

So that is what makes Celtic’s sudden links with Uruguay star Giorgian De Arrascaeta so eye-catching.

The Sun claims that Rodgers told scouts to watch the 24-year-old in action for Cruzeiro in the Copa Libertadores last season. And it is understood that Celtic are interested along with Newcastle United.

Now, De Arrascaeta might not have lived up to expectations in the World Cup, starting just once as Uruguay reached the quarter-finals. But he has been one of the standout players in domestic South American football of late.

And, unlike McGinn, De Arrascaeta is a player who could take Celtic to the next level. He boasts real star quality and is renowned for his ability to embarrass opponents with his sublime skill.

Though he has a price-tag of £18 million, which would make him about double Celtic’s current record signing, the fact that they are being linked is a major boost for fans who have been critical of a lack of ambition this summer.