Celtic 'keen' to land 6'7 former Bayern Munich centre-back but face 'competition' from across the globe
Martin O’Neill is eager to see some new additions sign for Celtic this January transfer window
Martin O’Neill has been quizzed on Celtic’s latest transfer stance as they look to push forward in both the Scottish Premiership and Europa League this week.
The return of O’Neill for a second interim stint has helped steady the ship at Parkhead after a brief but turbulent spell under Wilfried Nancy. The Hoops are up to second in the Premiership table, ahead of Rangers on goal difference and six points behind leaders Hearts.
As Celtic eye a title challenge and their upcoming Europa League clash, there’s still time for them to continue their transfer business before the window closes until the summer.
Celtic ‘keen’ on signing former Bayer Munich defender
According to multiple reports, relayed via Record Sport, Celtic are ‘keen’ on signing 23-year-old defender Jamie Lawrence this month. The centre-back, who currently plays for for Austrian side WSG Tirol, is due to be out of contract this summer but there is ‘significant interest’ being shown in him right now.
Celtic are among the clubs interested in bringing Lawrence in this window but they are up against stiff competition from other clubs. Teams across Spain, Turkey and China are ‘keeping a close eye’ on Lawrence’s current situation.
The 23-year-old defender is looking for his next chapter despite only signing for his current club in 2024, when he joined from Bayern Munich. His short contract is due to expire but clubs are eager to sign him sooner than the summer, which could present them with the opportunity to negotiate a cut fee.
Lawrence is an attractive target due to his physical presence across the defence, standing at a towering 6 foot 7.
The backline is an area of priority for Celtic, as they are also keeping an eye on Aurele Amenda from Eintracht Frankfurt. However, it may be difficult to convince the German side to cash in, as they recently parted ways with manager Dino Topmoller.
Martin O’Neill discusses Celtic transfer plans
O’Neill has admitted that he would like to see new players arrive at the club before Celtic face Hearts this weekend. The Hoops boss is aware asking for new personnel before the midweek Europa League game will be a tall request, but he wants to see some positive talks ahead of the top-of-the-table clash with the Jambos.
"Obviously, we can't change the squad around for the Bologna game, but we'd like to have some people in for Hearts if it's at all possible,” O’Neill said.
“I'd be hoping by some stage next week that we'd have people in. I'm actually very worried I've said that now.”