Mikael Lustig is reportedly on the verge of leaving Celtic.
Frank McAvennie has told The Scottish Sun that replacing Mikael Lustig should be the first item on Celtic boss Neil Lennon’s agenda this summer.
The long-serving Swedish defender looks set to leave the Hoops on a Bosman after reportedly having a medical with Belgian outfit Gent earlier this week [The Record].
Lustig, who earns £24,000 per week in Glasgow [The Daily Star], has enjoyed seven trophy-laden years with Celtic, winning 16 major titles – including eight Scottish Premiership crowns.
But the 32-year-old right-back has shown signs of decline in recent years, and Bhoys legend McAvennie feels that his former club need to sign a replacement as soon as possible.
“The first thing Lenny needs to do is find a new right back because even if Mikael Lustig stays he won’t be first choice next season,” he told The Scottish Sun.
“He’s been a fantastic player for Celtic but too many quick, young wingers were getting by him by the end of the season — and James Forrest doesn’t exactly lend a hand! So a young, energetic full-back is a must for me.”
McAvennie is right. Even if Lustig stays, which seems unlikely at this point, an upgrade is vital.
Former Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers knew that Lustig’s time was done and the Northern Irishman brought in Jeremy Toljan in January, though the Borussia Dortmund-owned man returned to his parent club after having little impact at Paradise.
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