Celtic are considering moves for free agents after the summer transfer window closed, with the club's strong start to the season potentially boosted by late additions. The Daily Record reports that several experienced players remain available, offering a solution for manager Brendan Rodgers as he juggles domestic and European commitments. Celtic currently sit first in the Premiership with 12 points from four wins, holding a two-point lead over St Mirren. Their next challenge is an away fixture against Aberdeen on December 19th.
With the window shut, clubs can only sign players who are unattached. Record Sport said it "takes a look at some of the top free agents that could still be on the agenda." For Celtic, the left-back position is a specific concern. Kieran Tierney is currently sidelined, as is Landon Emenalo, leaving a potential gap in the squad. The club's impressive defensive record of just two goals conceded in four league games is something they will want to protect. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming matches on the standings and fixtures pages.
Which free agents are linked with Celtic?
One name previously connected to Celtic is Tyrell Malacia. The 27-year-old left-back is available after his Manchester United contract expired. His four years at Old Trafford were hampered by injuries, but his pedigree remains high. Another defensive option is Conor Coady. The experienced defender is seeking a new club after leaving Wrexham, whom he joined for £2 million from Leicester City. He spent six months on loan at Charlton Athletic last season and has not featured in the Championship this term.
In midfield, Tom Davies could be an option. The 28-year-old former Everton player ended a three-year, injury-hit spell at Sheffield United last summer. His availability offers potential depth in the engine room. Further forward, the versatile Matty Kennedy has extensive SPFL experience with Kilmarnock, Hibs, St Johnstone and Aberdeen. The 31-year-old last played at Rugby Park and could provide cover in wide areas.
What other Premiership clubs are active?
Rivals Rangers have spent heavily to back manager Derek McInnes in his pursuit of silverware, but they too could explore the free agent pool. Two former Ibrox players are on the market. Winger Ryan Kent, 29, left the Seattle Sounders in November 2025. His move to Fenerbahce in 2024 ended with a contract termination 16 months after he left the Premiership. Midfielder Joe Aribo, 30, who scored in the Europa League Final defeat for Rangers, ended a four-year stay at Southampton last summer after a loan spell at Leicester City.
Hearts, like Celtic, are strengthening for their own European campaign. Aberdeen earlier enquired about Charlton captain Greg Docherty. The 31-year-old led his side to promotion from League One in 2025 and played 90 times in the English second tier last season. Hibs are reportedly considering moves for veteran strikers. They are looking at Danny Ings, the 34-year-old who spent last season at Sheffield United and saw a move to Leicester collapse. Incredibly, they are also tracking 39-year-old Jamie Vardy. Vardy spent last season with Cremonese after 13 years at Leicester and was linked with Rangers earlier. He was let go after Cremonese's relegation to Serie B, with a host of English clubs also monitoring him.
How does Celtic's current squad shape up?
Celtic's perfect start is built on a solid foundation, having scored 11 goals while conceding only two. However, the injury list presents a challenge. Alongside Tierney, key players Alistair Johnston, Callum Osmand, Jota, and Kasper Høgh are also currently unavailable. Manager Brendan Rodgers will need to manage his resources carefully, especially with the added demands of European football. The full extent of the squad's fitness can be monitored on the club's injuries page.
The free agent market allows for flexibility outside the standard windows. This route is often used to address unexpected injury crises or to add specific experience for the second half of the season. For Celtic, maintaining their early momentum will be vital. Their next league match is against Aberdeen, who are currently 10th in the table, on December 19, 2026.
