It's clear that Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers is in the market for a left-back this month - but any new arrival will face a fierce battle to oust Greg Taylor from the starting XI.
Under previous manager Ange Postecoglou, the Australian placed plenty of emphasis on the role of his full-backs. They were asked to defend, attack and drift into midfield to open up space for team mates and it took a certain player to pull it off.
Former Hoops defender Josip Juranovic and current star Alistair Johnston have both proved adept on the right-hand side, but the left-back position remains a problematic area that needs addressed in January.
Alexandro Bernabei looks set to depart the club later this month if a new addition arrives at Parkhead, with the Argentinian seemingly not cut out to be a serious contender for a first-team starting berth. Signed on a long-term deal for a fee of around £3.75million from Lanus in his homeland in the summer of 2022, Bernabei has been continuously left out of matchday squads and isn't fancied by Rodgers.
GlasgowWorld has ran the rule over every left-back that has been linked with Celtic in the last three transfer window, who are still realistic signing options:
5. Matthew Sorinola - Free agent
Market value: €750k - The Scottish champions lost out to Swansea City in the battle for the English youngster's signature in 2022, who counts Union Saint-Gilloise and MK Dons among his former clubs. Currently without a club after his contract in Belgium was mutually terminated at the end of December. | Getty Images
6. Owen Beck - Liverpool
Market value: €600k - Both Glasgow clubs were equally impressed by the 21 y/o's loan spell at Dundee and have been keen to sign him on a permanent basis. But Reds boss Jurgen Klopp recalled him early due to a defensive injury crisis. and it remains unclear if he will become available again towards the end of the window. | SNS Group
7. Quentin Merlin - Nantes
Market value: €10.00m - A France U/21 international, Celtic were understood to be "looking at his situation" in the summer. He would cost a sizable amount which might prevent Celtic from making a move for him going forward. | AFP via Getty Images
8. Callum Styles - Barnsley
Market value: €2.50m - Hungarian international seems to have adapted to more of an attacking wing back role at Oakwell and the EFL League One club previously played 'hardball' over a potential exit. Could Celtic's interest resurface? | Getty Images