Celtic assistant manager Shaun Maloney has confirmed the club is working on several key signings before the transfer window closes, while also revealing midfielder Reo Hatate's future is uncertain. Maloney spoke to the media on Tuesday ahead of Wednesday's Scottish Premiership clash with Aberdeen, as reported by Yahoo Sports.
He stated the club is "really happy" with their four summer arrivals but needs to replace players who have departed. "There's some key positions that we still need a bit of work on in the next couple of days," Maloney said. The assistant manager identified the need for a left-back to compete with Kieran Tierney and acknowledged the challenge for goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo with Sam Johnstone linked.
What positions are Celtic targeting?
Maloney was clear that the squad requires reinforcement in specific areas. He mentioned three or four key positions, emphasizing the importance of matching the profile of players who have left, such as Arne Engels. The club is actively pursuing a left-sided defender to provide depth behind Tierney. This search is timely, as Tierney is currently a doubt for the Aberdeen match alongside striker Kasper Hogh, while forward Callum Osmand is out for weeks with an ankle injury. You can track the latest squad availability on our injuries page.
In goal, Viljami Sinisalo is being challenged for his place. Maloney's message to the Finnish keeper was direct: "You have to keep performing at the levels you are to keep the shirt." This comes amid links to a potential loan move for England international Sam Johnstone.
Could Reo Hatate leave Celtic?
A significant development from the press conference was the update on Reo Hatate. Maloney revealed "it's possible" the Japan international could move on from the club this summer. Hatate has been a consistent performer for Celtic, making 33 league appearances last season. His potential departure would open up a key role in the midfield, an area the club may now need to address in the market. The current midfield options, including Matt O'Riley and captain Callum McGregor, are detailed on our squad page.
What is the outlook for the Aberdeen game?
Looking immediately ahead, Maloney expects a tough match against Aberdeen at Pittodrie. He urged his side to be "more aggressive" in their approach. "We want more without the ball," the assistant manager stated, highlighting a tactical focus for the encounter. Celtic currently sit second in the Premiership table after four matches, a position you can follow on our standings page. A positive result is important to maintain pressure on the early leaders.
The fixture is the first of a busy period for the Hoops, who face Ross County at home this weekend before the international break. After the break, the schedule includes a crucial Champions League playoff second leg, followed by a league trip to face Hearts at Tynecastle on September 13th. The full run of upcoming games is available on our fixtures list.
How does this affect Celtic's transfer plans?
With the window closing soon, activity at Celtic Park is expected to intensify. Maloney indicated the club is working hard to secure the right players, but remained coy on specific names like Chelsea's teenage forward Shim Mheuka, stating "nothing's confirmed with anyone." The focus remains on a targeted approach rather than a major overhaul. The assistant manager stressed that any signings beyond the three or four priority areas would be with a view to the future. This strategy suggests a balance between addressing immediate needs and building long-term squad depth. The next fixture for Celtic is the away match against Aberdeen on Wednesday, September 3rd.
