Leeds United are loving life in the Championship at the moment, recent wins against Norwich City and Huddersfield Town showcasing Daniel Farke's men at their very best – coming from behind at Carrow Road in dramatic fashion to beat the Canaries 3-2, whilst a barnstorming 4-1 win at home over the Terriers was far more straightforward but equally as entertaining.

Joel Piroe continues to lead the line for the Whites, but it's the displays of Crysencio Summerville in recent weeks that have got supporters purring in West Yorkshire.

The Dutch winger helped himself to four goals in total versus Norwich and Huddersfield, the 22-year-old arguably Leeds' star-man now after a mass exodus from Elland Road this summer saw players such as Tyler Adams and Luis Sinisterra depart.

With the first team firing on all cylinders – Leeds third in the current Championship standings – it'll be even more pleasing for the die-hard Whites masses that youth players such as Sean McGurk are excelling for the U21's who could go on to be heroes themselves at senior level.

Currently scoring at a faster rate than Piroe, McGurk is already being tipped for greatness when he eventually pulls on a first-team jersey.

His performances at youth level have been electric, considering Piroe's own blistering goalscoring form.

Piroe's numbers this season

Leaving Swansea behind for pastures new in the Whites, the 24-year-old has not regretted swapping the Swans for Leeds at all.

Scoring five goals in 14 starts for his new employers to date in the second tier, the Dutch attacker stood out in particular in Leeds' 3-0 win over Millwall with two of those goals coming in the clash at the Den.

Netting both opportunities he put on target with cool precision, the ex-Swansea Player of the Year winner singlehandedly helped his outfit pick up only their second Championship win of the season at that point.

Piroe's effectiveness has lessened in recent encounters – the Dutchman only netting once in his last six – but he's still picked week in, week out by Farke in the attacking ranks.

McGurk, however, continues to be deadly for Leeds at U21 level, the ex-Wigan Athletic attacking midfielder crucial for his Premier League 2 side.

McGurk's numbers this season

The 20-year-old has received plenty of praise from the football world off the back of his impressive performances and raw potential, McGurk himself even stating – when first signing for Leeds – that he would be best described as an "exciting" player to watch.

He certainly has been exciting for the Whites this campaign in the Premier League 2, scoring at a faster rate than Piroe even whilst playing primarily behind the forwards in a central attacking midfield role.

McGurk has six goal contributions in total, including four goals in seven outings alongside two assists – a better scoring rate than Piroe's return of five in 14.

Last time out, he helped his team race into a 2-0 goal lead against Liverpool U21's – scoring within the first few minutes himself, before assisting number 9 Mateo Joseph.

The game would finish 2-2, but McGurk was a key performer again with his current displays suggesting that he could be given a first-team opportunity soon.

With Leeds developing the likes of Kalvin Phillips and Lewis Cook through their Academy who have gone on to have established careers at top-flight level, they'll hope they have another gem in McGurk who becomes a star at senior level for the Whites.

Arsenal are one of the many clubs looking towards the January transfer window to bolster their squad, as Mikel Arteta aims to keep his title-challenging trajectory going in preparation for the second half of the 2023/24 season.

The Gunners have struggled with injury considerably after just 12 Premier League games played, leaving the manager and Edu in a position to once again consider the depth in quality at the club.

A host of names have been speculated to be of interest to the north Londoners, with a report from the Mirror explaining that Arteta will hope to strengthen his side’s midfield in particular this winter.

Arsenal transfer targets – Joao Neves

According to news in Portugal, Arsenal are one of the clubs to have been ‘seduced’ by Benfica teenager, Joao Neves, who is excelling in defensive midfield in Liga Portugal.

A report from O Jogo, relayed by Paisley Gates, claimed that both the Gunners and Liverpool are impressed by the 19-year-old’s rise to prominence with the Eagles, however, his talents won't be easy to come by.

In January 2022, the Portuguese champions reaped the benefits of selling to English clubs, as Benfica received £106.8m from Chelsea for the signing of Enzo Fernandez, with Neves’ price set to be of a similar calibre.

As relayed by O Jogo, the teenager has a release clause of €120m (£105m), with the club making it clear that such figure is the only price they would allow their starlet to depart for, but why is he worth so much?

What Joao Neves could offer to Arsenal

In the 2023/24 edition of Liga Portugal, no midfielder averages more touches per 90 (97.07) than the Portugal international, and as a player who loves to be on the ball, the defensive maestro has a lot to show for it.

Lauded as a “sensational” asset to his boyhood club by U23 scout Antonio Mango, Neves, with his playing style credited as that of a “box-to-box phenomenon” by talent scout Jacek Kulig in his scouting report of the teen.

Described as a “perfect midfielder” by Kulig, the 2004-born dynamo is hailed for his ability to hold himself in physical battles, as well as staying “one step of the opposition” when it comes to progressing play.

For Arsenal, the signs shown by the youngster make for encouraging viewing, particularly with reference to the individual the Gunners seek to complete their midfield.

After signing Declan Rice in the summer, there was hope that the Englishman could thrive alongside Thomas Partey, however, his Ghanaian counterpart has struggled to stay fit, with rumours also rising to suggest his future in north London is under threat.

Joao Neves

Declan Rice

88.0%

91.2%

7.07

6.96

1.56

1.41

1.80

0.53

3.12

2.11

0.96

1.41

2.16

1.50

1.92

0.97

As portrayed in the table above, Neves could be the perfect suitor to partner the £105m star going forward, with his ability to progress and act as the anchor putting the Benfica starlet in good position to be Rice’s partner in the engine room pivot at the Emirates.

The Tavira-born sensation treasures his strengths in progressing into the final third, as well as being an accomplished tackler, holding the keys to allow the Englishman to roam forward – something that could well take him to the next level as a midfielder.

Kulig stressed that it could be “incredible to think” of just how good the 19-year-old could become, making Arsenal’s reported interest an exciting prospect, as the eye-capturing midfielder continues to showcase his fearless edge in his homeland.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou will undoubtedly rue his side's two-match slump in the Premier League before the November international break, but despite the recent strife will remind his squad that Manchester City are just two points ahead in pole position.

Spurs had undergone a dramatic transformation this summer after finishing eighth in the top flight last year, missing out on European football – something that prompted Harry Kane to depart for Bayern Munich as a by-product.

But the arrival of Postecoglou has changed everything, with the Australian instilling confidence and cohesion and reviving the attacking prowess of this Tottenham team.

After ten matches, Tottenham were top of the table with eight victories and zero losses, but a chaotic, controversy-strewn contest against Chelsea last week unravelled the gains made, sending it spiralling into the murk.

While losing to Mauricio Pochettino's side was a blow, it was hardly the most detrimental element of a bitter evening, with James Maddison and Micky van de Ven both sustaining injuries to rule them out until the new year.

Destiny Udogie and Cristian Romero also received their marching orders, with such a raft of setbacks playing into Wolverhampton Wanderers' late turnaround at the weekend.

Talented as this Lilywhites crop may be, the recent malaise has stripped bare the lack of depth that will make challenging against a forbidding behemoth of Man City's stature something tricky.

Nonetheless, Spurs remain in an excellent position, and Postecoglou will know that if his side can battle their way to January, the winter transfer window can be used to bolster the ranks.

Tottenham transfer targets – Ruben Neves

According to TEAMtalk, a rule set to be implemented in the Saudi Pro League could have a knock-on effect for Tottenham's transfer plans, with Al Ittihad winger Jota now likely to remain at the club with the number of foreign players allowed in a matchday squad changing from six to ten.

Such could now ignite Jota's career in Saudi Arabia and close the door on a January departure, but Postecoglou still appears eager to sign in January and could yet raid the opulent division for a former Premier League star.

Indeed, the report continues that Al Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves is on Spurs chairman Daniel Levy's radar, with Arsenal and Newcastle United also interested in the Portugal ace.

Neves joined Al Hilal from Wolves for £47m in the summer after six years of service, though reports stemming from Portugal last month claim that the 26-year-old 'dreams' of returning to English shores.

Ruben Neves' style of play

It's generally accepted that Tottenham's squad is a little thin, and while the backline requires priority, regardless of Van de Ven and Romero's current absences, support must be spread across the pack to truly cement a place at the forefront of the Premier League.

And Neves, who is a tried and tested star in the division, would be the perfect addition, especially considering he has expressed a willingness to head back from Saudi Arabia now half a season into his new chapter, having been hailed as "incredible" by former teammate Hugo Bueno.

#

Player

Club

1

Ismael Bennacer

AC Milan

2

Fabian Ruiz

Paris Saint-Germain

3

Youri Tielemans

Aston Villa

4

Thiago Alcantara

Liverpool

5

Thomas Partey

Arsenal

*Sourced via Football Transfers

Slick in passing and tenacious in the tackle, the £300k-per-week machine has been hailed as an Old Gold "hero" by the likes of journalist Matt Maher for his central role in guiding Wolves to the Premier League and securing a spot away from the danger zone, even leading the club to European endeavours.

As per FBref, he ranks among the top 17% of midfielders for interceptions, the top 4% for blocks and the top 2% for clearances per 90 in relation to his European peers, highlighting the defensive strength that would only enhance Postecoglou's system, installing steel framework, of a sort, to shape and structure the fluency and effectiveness in transition.

Neves scored 30 goals and supplied 13 assists across 253 appearances for Wolves; for a deep-lying midfielder, this is not a half-bad return, especially given the ferocious snap of his skilful ranged strikes.

Since signing for Al Hilal, the 5 foot 10 gem has been in fine fettle, having chalked up 17 appearances, scoring two goals, supplying an assist and having yet to taste defeat.

As per Sofascore, he has been an omnipresent figure on the pitch in the Saudi Pro League, completing 91% of his passes, averaging 2.2 key passes, 2.3 tackles and 6.3 ball recoveries per game and taking 84 touches per game, very much the fulcrum.

He would bring a fresh sense of dynamism to Tottenham's midfield and indeed some much-needed depth, and Postecoglou has to throw the kitchen sink at this deal, else risk his signature winding up at a rival, such as Arsenal or the Magpies.

Why Tottenham should sign Ruben Neves

Neves would not only bring mettle and technical prowess to the fold, but he would also offer leadership and resilience to aid the development of players such as Pape Matar Sarr, immensely talented and perhaps strengthened by a mentor of Neves' ilk.

It would also represent a statement of intent from Postecoglou, much like when Maddison was signed from Leicester City for £40m in the summer.

The England international has been one of the standout performers in the Premier League this season and earned the Player of the Month award for August, having now posted three goals and five assists from 11 matches.

Crucially, Postecoglou felt that Tottenham needed a new first-rate playmaker to fuel his vision, and clinched Maddison's services with no European football, despite the vested interest of Eddie Howe's Newcastle.

Newcastle had been in pursuit of the former Fox for multiple transfer windows before cooling their attention this year, but must rue that decision after the 26-year-old's performances have led him to be "on the verge" of becoming a world-class phenom, according to pundit Jermaine Jenas.

Signing Neves could bring similar fruits, replicating the momentous addition of Maddison and infusing even more quality to edge Tottenham toward an illustrious position at the very top.

Leeds United failed to sign Bayer Leverkusen star Nadiem Amiri over the summer, but a reliable journalist has delivered an update on the chances of him potentially joining in January.

Nadiem Amiri profiled

Amiri is naturally a central midfielder who has plied his trade at the BayArena since 2019 having joined from Hoffenheim, and he’s since gone on to make a total of 142 appearances to date (Transfermarkt – Amiri statistics).

However, Germany’s international is set to reach the conclusion of his deal at the end of the season (Bayer Leverkusen contracts), so his side will know that they don’t have long left to cash in should they not want to risk losing their prized asset for free.

The Bundesliga’s 27-year-old is reportedly looking to leave at the start of next year, with the same outlet claiming that chiefs are willing to sanction his sale should they receive a respectable offer from one of his potential suitors, one of those being in the Championship.

Over the summer, Xabi Alonso’s talisman turned down a move to Elland Road after visiting the city and even the training ground, but now looking to move onto new pastures, Daniel Farke may have been handed an ideal second opportunity to secure his target's services.

Phil Hay offers verdict on Nadiem Amiri

Speaking on The Square Ball Podcast (as quoted by Leeds United News), Phil Hay shared his view on Leeds making another approach for Nadiem Amiri in January.

“It would be fascinating if they did revisit it, given the way it ended – given he was told to find his own private jet home. He is really good. It wouldn’t be unheard of, but it would be odd for that to go through. Farke really likes him.

"There was a stage where Amiri thought he’d join Marseille. It was not an astute decision [to reject Leeds], he needs to go. It feels like bridges burned. Would have been a huge asset.”

Nadiem Amiri's style of play

While Amiri is naturally a central midfielder, he’s much stronger in the offensive aspect of his game having posted 77 contributions (41 assists and 36 goals) since the start of his career, form which has previously seen him described as a “superb player” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig.

The Ludwigshafen native, who pockets £47k-per-week (Bayer Leverkusen salaries), also currently ranks in the 94th percentile for successful take-ons which shows that he loves to use his pace to dribble past his marker and create chances in the final third (FBRef – Amiri statistics).

Likes to play short passes

Gets fouled often

Likes to do layoffs

Likes to dribble

Likes to shoot from distance

Does not dive into tackles (Data via WhoScored)

Furthermore, Amiri shares the same representative, CAA Base Ltd, as Djed Spence (Leeds agents), so this existing connection that his management already have to the club could give the board a small advantage should they decide to pursue another deal for their target in January.

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has looked settled since returning to Glasgow in the summer and now reportedly has a talented youngster in his sights as the January window approaches.

Celtic's title hunt and January plans…

Celtic are in a commanding position at the top of the Scottish Premiership table and have the chance to extend their lead at the summit of the division to 11 points on Saturday, where they will take on Motherwell at Parkhead in their first match back after the international break concluded.

Of course, rivals Rangers will have two games in hand by the time Saturday's round of Scottish top-flight matches conclude; however, building an advantage over their arch-rivals will enable the Hoops to heap added pressure on Phillipe Clement's side in the hunt for the title.

Despite the ferocious nature of the festive period, Rodgers will also have one eye on January as he looks to bolster his squad depth. As cited by The Daily Record, the 50-year-old commented on his side's plans for the mid-season window, stating:

"The notion now is to make sure we bring in better. You can get good players in January. But it’s availability and affordability."

"But there is no doubt that if we’re to enhance the squad in January then we’ll need to bring in someone who is going to improve us."

Bologna striker Sydney van Hooijdonk is someone the Bhoys have reportedly enquired about as they search for another striker. Meanwhile, Motherwell sensation Lennon Miller has also been mentioned as a young face who could come in to add another dynamic to Rodgers' packed engine room.

Celtic's next five fixtures – all competitions

Competition

Opponent

Venue

Scottish Premiership

Motherwell (H)

Celtic Park

Champions League

Lazio (A)

Stadio Olimpico

Scottish Premiership

St Johnstone (A)

McDiarmid Park

Scottish Premiership

Hibernian (H)

Celtic Park

Scottish Premiership

Kilmarnock (A)

Rugby Park

Keeping the theme of prodigious talent that could end up at Celtic, a new report has indicated that the Scottish champions are now embroiled in a tussle with several other high-profile clubs to secure the services of a rising star.

Celtic scout Sam Curtis

Celtic have recently scouted St Patrick's Athletic defender Sam Curtis and are among a clutch of clubs keen to land the FAI Cup winner once the January window opens, as per a report from 90min.

Labelled "unbelievable" by teammate Tom Grivosti, Curtis is also being courted by Premier League heavyweights Manchester United, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City. At the same time, Hull City, Leeds United and Middlesbrough are also monitoring his situation.

Curtis, who plays predominantly as a right-back but can also cover in central defence, has made 39 appearances in all competitions during 2023, registering three goals and three assists in the process (Curtis statistics – Transfermarkt).

Cited by The Irish Independent, Chelsea captain Reece James actually reached out to the 17-year-old to offer advice if he ever needed some tricks of the trade from an elite professional; however, the Navan-born gem is refusing to get carried away despite the England international's kind words. He stated in a recent interview:

"I was delighted, it was brilliant. I am basing my game around him, but as I said, I want to be the first Sam Curtis, not the next Reece James, but it’s nice to have him there. I’m just happy he reached out. He is an inspiration to me. I’m very privileged and very blessed."

With Celtic placing the defender on their radar, it may do Curtis no harm in his quest to further his career by having someone like James endorse his talents, though whether he ends up in Glasgow any time soon remains to be seen.

After suffering the heartbreak of Premier League relegation, Leeds United were forced to bid farewell to a number of players in the summer transfer window, giving new manager Daniel Farke an immediate headache at the start of his tenure.

The former Norwich boss recruited well, however, alongside new owners the 49ers Enterprises, and the Whites are now in the race for automatic promotion alongside Ipswich Town and Leicester City.

Farke's attention may soon turn towards the January transfer window and keeping hold of the new stars that have emerged this season at Elland Road. The last thing he'll want is to do is lose players once again in what would be a major dent in his side's Championship promotion push. And reports suggest that the manager is set to get his wish when it comes to keeping one particular player, too.

Leeds United transfer news

Whilst exits took place during the summer, they did at least give Farke the opportunity to discover new options at Elland Road, whether through the market or the academy. And that includes Archie Gray, who has emerged as one of Leeds' standout stars this season. The teenager has taken his opportunity incredibly well and has quickly become an important part of Farke's side – so much so that the Whites may face a battle to keep hold of him.

Phil Hay shares off-field Leeds agreement from Elland Road

Good news for Leeds fans…

ByTom Cunningham Nov 24, 2023

According to Football Insider, Leeds and the 49ers are set to reject offers for Gray during the January transfer window and are adamant that he'll be staying at the club amid reported interest from Liverpool, Everton and Crystal Palace. The midfielder's current deal runs out in 2025, which hands Leeds a fairly urgent task when it comes to securing his future in Yorkshire, and talks are thought to be in the works over a new contract.

"Fantastic" Gray has become key for Farke

Gray's stats this season show just how important he's been for Leeds. The 17-year-old has started plenty of Championship games throughout the current campaign, whether that be in midfield or at right-back, proving his versatility. Still so young, Gray is only likely to get even better, which is exciting for those at Elland Road.

Farke is certainly a fan too, speaking about Gray's ability to fill in at right-back, saying:

"For Archie, it's definitely not a bad choice at times. We don't play him there just to develop him, it's more we've got the feeling for this game, we need a player there who is capable to handle the pace and the speed and the mobility of the opponent's wingers.

"Also to play a bit more like an inverted full-back, a bit more like a traditional midfield player, Archie would have been the right choice. Thank God he repaid my trust and played some really good games there. He was fantastic in the last home game, solid last away game and he was crucial, especially in the second half."

After suffering play-off heartbreak last season, it's no surprise that Sunderland are once again on course to secure their shot at a place at Wembley, even if it is early days. Tony Mowbray's side currently sit inside the play-off spots on goal difference. Given how tight things are in the Championship so far this season, the January transfer window could make or break Sunderland's season.

The Wearside club weren't the busiest during the summer, with their most exciting deal coming in the form of Jobe Bellingham, who has since enjoyed success at The Stadium of Light. Further reinforcements could come through the door during January and that may include one specific target.

Sunderland transfer news

Since the end of Amad Diallo's loan spell last season, whilst Sunderland haven't been incredibly short on goals, they have missed the spark that the Manchester United youngster provided. Another attacking addition could be made a priority in the New Year, and that's where Luciano Rodriguez comes in.

According to reliable reporter Alan Nixon on his Patreon, relayed by The 72, Sunderland are eyeing a move for Rodriguez, who has continued to impress for Uruguay top flight side Liverpool. The forward can play in any of the front three roles, which could hand Mowbray a major boost when it comes to positional depth. Though considered an ambitious deal, Sunderland will reportedly have the funds available following the sale of Ross Stewart during the summer transfer window.

It remains to be seen whether the Black Cats can secure a deal, but the fact that they've scouted Rodriguez suggests that they're certainly keen on the Liverpool forward.

"Incredible" Rodriguez would boost Sunderland's promotion chances

At just 20-years-old, Rodriguez's stats show that he is seemingly a player full of potential and someone that Sunderland should be desperate to sign. At Liverpool this season, the forward has been involved in 10 goals in 27 appearances to attract the interest of Mowbray and co. The Uruguay U20 may only get better with time too, and could even look to follow in the footsteps of his compatriots, Luis Suarez and Darwin Nunez, by enjoying success in English football, potentially starting with promotion at Sunderland.

January looks set to be an important month for Rodriguez's career, especially if the Black Cats make their move. In the Championship, he'd likely gain even more attention and even more praise after already impressing the likes of Football Talent Scout's Jacek Kulig, who said:

"Luciano Rodríguez is absolutely incredible at Sudamericano U-20. Already one of the biggest individual winners of the tournament without a doubt."

As Sunderland look to finally replace the spark of Diallo, who played a pivotal part in their play-off push last season, Rodriguez could be the player to turn to and feature alongside star man Jack Clarke. Throughout his career so far, the versatile forward has shown several signs that he's only just getting started when it comes to goals.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp will undoubtedly look to the market to strengthen his side in January and reports have emerged indicating the German and owners FSG are in pole position to sign a new target.

Liverpool's successful rebuild…

Back in the summer, the general consensus in and around Anfield was that a squad rebuild would be necessary if the Reds were to realise their ambitions of being able to compete with the likes of Manchester City at the top end of English football.

Big changes occurred during the last window, with the likes of experienced heads Fabinho, Jordan Henderson, Naby Keita, James Milner and Roberto Firmino among others leaving the club to make way for new arrivals. Freshening up his engine room, Klopp moved to acquire Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo, which looks to have worked a treat on Merseyside, with Liverpool sitting second in the Premier League standings with 27 points from their first 12 fixtures.

Additional work may well be needed in January to bolster squad depth in key positions and according to Football Insider, Klopp seemingly isn't finished strengthening his midfield arsenal as of yet and a move for Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips could now be on the cards. The report states that Serie A giants Juventus have also thrown their hat in the ring to try and land the England international; however, his preference would be to remain in the English top flight at this stage.

Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sane is also mooted to be a target for Liverpool and the 27-year-old has revealed that he is delaying talks over a new contract with the German champions to focus on the current season, as he said:

"I haven’t given it any thought. The club wants to have discussions but at the moment I want to concentrate on the season. Bayern will be my first point of contact, everything else will take care of itself."

Now, a fresh report has suggested that a new defender could also be on the way to Anfield come the New Year when the market re-opens.

Liverpool's last five results – all competitions

Competition

Opponent & result

Venue

Premier League

Liverpool 3-0 Brentford

Anfield

Europa League

Toulouse 3-2 Liverpool

Stadium de Toulouse

Premier League

Luton Town 1-1 Liverpool

Kenilworth Road

EFL Cup

Bournemouth 1-2 Liverpool

Vitality Stadium

Premier League

Liverpool 3-0 Nottingham Forest

Anfield

Liverpool lead Goncalo Inacio chase

According to new reports from Spain, Liverpool are favourites to sign Sporting Club defender Goncalo Inacio, who has a release clause of €60 million (£52.5 million) present in his current terms with the Portuguese giants. Nevertheless, the Portugal international is also being courted by the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Real Madrid; however, Liverpool's plans to install Inacio as an 'undisputed starter' could give them the edge in negotiations.

This term, Inacio, who has previously been labelled a "sensation" by Football Talent scout Jacek Kulig, has been ever present for Sporting, racking up 17 appearances across all competitions for his current employers (Inacio statistics – Transfermarkt).

Now, a move to Anfield could beckon for Inacio as Liverpool aim to wrestle the Premier League crown from Manchester City between now and next May, making this one to watch.

Celtic are considering a move to bring a new goalkeeper to the Scottish Premiership in January, according to a fresh report.

Celtic's season so far

The Hoops have made a remarkable start to the domestic campaign having won 11, drawn three and lost none of their opening 14 games, meaning that they currently find themselves clear at the top of the table ahead of their rivals Rangers.

Whilst Brendan Rodgers doesn’t necessarily need to enter the market to improve his squad given their outstanding form, Joe Hart and Scott Bain will both have reached the expiration of their deals at the end of the season (Celtic contracts), so the manager could do with discovering the availability of goalkeepers.

Celtic signal January transfer plans; Rodgers convinced he can land targets

Celtic are keen to strengthen in January to give them an edge in the hunt for the Scottish Premiership title…

BySean Markus Clifford Nov 26, 2023

Back in 2018, Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin put pen to paper at the Bernabeu Stadium, but during that time, he’s been sent out on three loans to CD Leganes, Real Valladolid and Real Oviedo, showing how low down in the pecking order he is under Carlo Ancelotti (Transfermarkt – Lunin statistics).

The Ukraine international is typically his manager’s third-choice shot-stopper behind Thibaut Courtois and Kepa Arrizabalaga when all members of the trio are fully fit, and with his terms set to run out upon the conclusion of the current campaign (Real Madrid contracts), the 24-year-old has been highlighted as a target at Parkhead.

Celtic eyeing swoop for Andriy Lunin

According to The Daily Record, Celtic are contemplating a move for Lunin at the start of next year, and there's a chance that he could be made available due to his lack of game time and minutes at Real Madrid.

“Real Madrid's backup keeper Andriy Lunin might just be available in January despite a recent run in the team. Record Sport understands he's one of the keepers under consideration at Celtic and while his recent prominence at Real might suggest he'll be a tricky man to land, Carlo Ancelotti dropped a hint that his stint in the team is coming to an end this weekend.”

Lunin could be a "top goalkeeper" for Rodgers

Since the start of his career, Lunin has kept 37 clean sheets from 112 games. Standing at 6 foot 3, Real Madrid’s colossus has made 15 saves from 17 shots on target against this year, giving him a save percentage of 88.2% (FBRef – Lunin statistics), which is higher than the 72% that Hart has managed so far this season (FBRef – Hart statistics), showing that he’d be an upgrade on the existing number one.

Sponsored by Nike, the Ukrainian additionally ranks in the 98th percentile for penalty saves so he has an excellent record when it comes to spot kicks, making him a really well-rounded player and one who would surely decide the odd cup fixture here and there too.

According to Carlo Ancelotti, Lunin is a “top goalkeeper” between the sticks, so if the right opportunity was to present itself, Celtic have to fully pursue a deal for their target by trying to fend off interest elsewhere and secure his services in January.

Celtic could be looking to make new signings in the January transfer window, but some "interesting" Hoops exit news could also come to fruition, according to an update from journalist Dean Jones.

Celtic transfer news

The Hoops still find themselves in a strong position in the Scottish Premiership title race, even though Saturday's 1-1 draw at home to Motherwell was a disappointing result. Fortunately, Rangers' dropped points by the same scoreline at Aberdeen means that no ground has been gained on Brendan Rodgers' side, who still hold an eight-point advantage at the top of the table, having played one game extra.

Celtic signal January transfer plans; Rodgers convinced he can land targets

Celtic are keen to strengthen in January to give them an edge in the hunt for the Scottish Premiership title…

BySean Markus Clifford Nov 26, 2023

Celtic aren't firing on all cylinders, however, and the January transfer window will allow Rodgers to make new signings in key areas, should he feel the need to. A recent update suggests that the Hoops are looking to bring in three new players in January, one of which is a goalkeeper, creating more competition for places in the process.

There is also a chance that certain fringe players leave Parkhead midway through the season, and a key update has emerged regarding the future of one such individual.

James McCarthy expected to leave Celtic

Speaking to Give Me Sport, Jones said that James McCarthy's time as a Celtic player could come to an end in January, having struggled to feature regularly for some time.

"It'll be interesting to see what opportunities come along for James McCarthy in January. I certainly think we will be hearing of some links. He does feel like a forgotten man at Celtic right now, so I think that they have to consider what the future is going to look like and whether he's a part of it. I think it seems unlikely right now."

In truth, January feels like the right time for McCarthy's Celtic adventure to come to an end, considering how much he has struggled to be a key man under Rodgers, while Jones also suggested we could see Marco Tilio leave the club in search of game time.

This season, the 33-year-old hasn't played a single minute of action for the Hoops, highlighting his struggles, and incredibly, he hasn't actually featured in a single game for Celtic since last October, in a Scottish League Cup clash with Motherwell in 2022/23.

It is pointless keeping McCarthy around for any longer than January, especially as the former Everton man is earning £14,000 per week at Parkhead for essentially contributing next to nothing to the cause, and the hope is that another club come in for him in January.

Appearances

27

Goals

0

Assists

1

At 33, McCarthy's best days looks to be behind him, however, so there may not necessarily be a long queue of clubs waiting to snap him up – the Celtic man has also been dogged by injuries down the years – but it makes sense for all parties for him to enjoy a new challenge during the autumn of his career.

McCarthy is conracted with the Hoops until the summer of 2025, but they need to sell him as soon as possible, rather than simply end up losing him on a free transfer when his deal eventually expires.