Should Celtic consider trying to bring Barry Bannan back this summer?

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Barry Bannan is reportedly available this summer, and Celtic should seriously consider making a move for their former academy starlet.

In terms of the areas of the Celtic squad that Brendan Rodgers is probably most happy with right now, it seems unlikely that any position would be able to top midfield, with the Hoops’ options in the middle of the park shining once again during their latest domestic Treble-winning campaign.

However, based on the reports that have emerged in the last few days, it would appear that Rodgers may be wise to consider looking to strengthen his midfield options before the current window closes.

The Daily Record reported at the weekend that Celtic were ready to sell Stuart Armstrong as four English sides chased his signature, while The Scottish Sun then suggested that Eboue Kouassi is also set to leave Parkhead.

Neither played particularly prominent roles this past season – as impressive as Armstrong still was, he did seem to take a step back from his form in Rodgers’ first year – but losing both should tempt Rodgers into the market.

And perhaps a report from the Daily Mirror earlier this week should leave Rodgers considering trying to bring one of the club’s former academy starlets back to the club while he is at the peak of his powers.

According to the Mirror, Sheffield Wednesday are ready to cash in on Barry Bannan this summer as the Owls look to balance the books, and Celtic should certainly consider a bid for the player who left them as a 14-year-old in 2004.

The 28-year-old is an extremely versatile midfielder who could probably fill in anywhere in the middle of the park, whether that be in a holding role, out wide or in an advanced position. He has been an extremely creative presence for Wednesday, providing 15 assists for the club in the Championship.

While it seems unlikely that Bannan will be short of offers this summer, Celtic would surely have an advantage given his allegiances as well as the fact that the Hoops can offer Champions League football.

Losing Armstrong would be a blow for the Bhoys this summer while Kouassi leaving would also be a disappointing end to a spell that initially promised a lot, but perhaps taking advantage of Bannan’s reported availability would be a very smart move that would soften the blow of any departures significantly.