Celtic make approach to sign rising £1m star with “a wand of a left foot”

Celtic Weigh Up Transfer Market Moves as Promising Left-Back Emerges as Target

Celtic are carefully evaluating their options as they look to make smart moves in the summer transfer window. Rather than rushing into signings, the reigning Scottish Premiership champions are taking a measured approach to identifying the right areas of the squad that need strengthening. According to recent reports, the club is now eyeing a promising young defender who could bolster their backline and provide valuable depth going into the new season.

Ongoing Uncertainty at Left-Back for Celtic

One of the more pressing issues for manager Brendan Rodgers lies at left-back, where the situation remains uncertain. While the return of former fan favourite Kieran Tierney appears imminent—pending the expiry of his contract at Arsenal—there is still much to resolve in terms of long-term planning for the position. The Scotland international, who previously won eight trophies during a highly successful first spell with Celtic, is expected to rejoin the club on a free transfer.

Tierney’s homecoming will undoubtedly be celebrated by fans and the manager alike, especially given his status as a modern-day club icon. However, questions remain about who will provide cover and competition for the 27-year-old, particularly as his fitness record in recent seasons has raised some concerns. He has managed just 20 appearances this season due to recurring injury problems.

Celtic in Talks with Schlupp, Taylor’s Future Uncertain

One potential reinforcement is Jeffrey Schlupp, who spent time on loan at Celtic and has held discussions about making a permanent move to Parkhead. The versatile Ghana international, who can play both in defence and midfield, is out of contract following the end of his tenure at Crystal Palace. While his experience and skill set would be an asset, his reported £60,000-per-week wage demands could prove a stumbling block for Celtic, who typically operate within a more modest salary structure.

Meanwhile, the future of long-serving left-back Greg Taylor is up in the air. Having been the club’s first-choice in the role for six seasons, the Greenock-born defender might be set for a summer exit despite Brendan Rodgers’ desire to retain him. With just a year remaining on his contract, Taylor could be seeking a new challenge, which would further underscore the need for reinforcements on the left side of the defence.

Given Tierney’s injury history and the uncertainty around both Schlupp and Taylor, Celtic are wisely exploring their options for additional cover—and possibly a long-term successor.

Young Prospect Harley Mills on Celtic’s Radar

In a recent update from Football League World, Celtic are reported to have made an official approach for Peterborough United’s highly rated young left-back Harley Mills. The 18-year-old has been attracting attention for his performances in the lower tiers of English football and has even drawn interest from Premier League side Fulham, who previously made a £1 million bid for his services.

Mills initially spent the first part of the season on loan at Enfield Town but caught wider attention following his return to Peterborough, particularly after scoring a spectacular free-kick in the Vertu Cup final against Birmingham City at Wembley Stadium. His standout moment on such a big stage has significantly boosted his profile, and he has since emerged as one of the most exciting defensive talents in League One.

Peterborough manager Darren Ferguson has heaped praise on the youngster, describing him as having a “wand of a left foot.” Statistically, Mills has been impressive, completing 66.7% of his dribbles and winning an identical percentage of his tackles—numbers that indicate both technical quality and defensive tenacity.

Following a Proven Recruitment Model

While some may raise concerns about Mills’ lack of top-flight experience, Celtic have a proven track record of identifying and developing talent from the English lower leagues. The club famously snapped up striker Moussa Dembélé from Fulham and midfielder Matt O’Riley from MK Dons, both of whom proved to be excellent acquisitions. More recently, Finnish goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo was brought in from Aston Villa following a successful loan at Exeter City, further demonstrating the club’s effective scouting and development strategy.

Mills represents the type of signing that aligns with this model—an under-the-radar talent with the potential to grow into a key player under the guidance of Rodgers and the Celtic coaching staff.

Decision Time for Peterborough

As things stand, the ball is very much in Peterborough United’s court. The League One club has offered Mills a new contract, but with only a year left on his current deal, the youngster may be tempted to consider his options—particularly if a move to a club of Celtic’s stature becomes a realistic possibility.

With time still on their side, Celtic appear content to continue assessing their defensive options. However, their interest in Harley Mills signals a clear intent to invest in youth and build a squad with both immediate impact and long-term potential.