Celtic are reportedly interested in signing Hearts defender Callum Paterson.
Heart of Midlothian’s Callum Paterson celebrates scoring
According to The Scottish Sun, Celtic are one of the clubs interested in signing Hearts right back Callum Paterson this summer.
Paterson, 21, joined Hearts back in 2010 and has come up through the ranks at Tynecastle, becoming one of their homegrown success stories over the last few years.
Hearts’ Callum Paterson in action against Kenny Miller of Rangers
Since making his first-team debut at the age of just 17 in 2012, Paterson has racked up almost 150 appearances for Hearts, scoring an impressive 30 goals despite largely playing at right back – though he has also had a stint as a striker too.
Now, Paterson – who has one Scotland cap to his name – could end up leaving Hearts, as he has just one left on his contract with the Edinburgh club – and they could cash in this summer.
Heart of Midlothian’s Callum Paterson (R) in action with Celtic’s Stuart Armstrong
The Scottish Sun report that contract talks haven’t progressed with Paterson, and rather than risk losing him for a compensation fee next summer, they may now sell him during this transfer window.
It’s stated that Celtic are one of the clubs interested in signing Paterson this summer, though clubs in England may also be keen to land the Scottish defender.
Celtic have been making a concerted effort to sign the top young Scottish players in recent times, as the likes of Stuart Armstrong, Scott Allan and Ryan Christie have all joined the club.
Paterson could join that group, and may be ideal for Brendan Rodgers’ 3-5-2 system given his ability to attack as well as defend. The Bhoys do already have Mikael Lustig and Saidy Janko at right back, but Paterson would offer an option for the future – and continue the club’s influx of young Scottish talent.
Would you like to see Celtic sign Paterson?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
