Celtic have already made a couple of signings before the January window has even opened in Alistair Johnston and Yuki Kobayashi – but here are three other World Cup stars they should consider over the course of the next few weeks:
Three World Cup stars Celtic should consider:
Ritsu Doan (Freiburg and Japan)
While Japan may feel they were unlucky not to get into the quarter-finals after taking Croatia to penalties, they did hugely well to get as far as they did. Doan was a huge part of their success – scoring two of their four goals in Qatar.
A goal each in the huge 2-1 wins over Spain and Germany. Still 24, Doan can play anywhere in attack and would give the Hoops another body to turn to. Good enough to rival Jota, or Liel Abada. Another Japanese star would fit in well.
Timo Weah (Lille and USA)
Of course, Weah spent time at Celtic on loan during the second half of 2018-19. He was impressive during that stint, scoring four goals in 17 games. Now, he is much more mature, he has improved. But he is struggling at Lille.
Just six appearances this season – and his contract will have just 18 months left to run when January comes around. His speed, goals and creativity, like his neat finish against Wales, would boost Celtic. A player that knows what it means.
Abdelhamid Sabiri (Sampdoria and Morocco)
Sabiri was in and out of the Morocco side that breathtakingly, reached the semi-finals. He came off the bench to score a crucial goal against Belgium in a 2-0 win. Since then, reports claim he is a £9m target for Lyon, Betis and more.
While such a fee would be expensive for Celtic, he would instantly improve the Hoops and at 24 – he has plenty of years left ahead of him. A couple of years in Glasgow and he could easily double that value. A smart signing.
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