Scott Brown has identified Dundee United defender Will Ferry as the perfect signing for Celtic before the transfer window closes. The former Celtic captain made the recommendation on BBC's Sportscene programme, highlighting the 25-year-old's qualities as the Scottish Premiership leaders consider their options. This report was first carried by Daily Mail Sport.
Will Ferry, a young Ireland international, scored and assisted in Dundee United's 4-0 win over Kilmarnock last week. His performance, which helped secure his side's first league win of the season, came just five days before Thursday's transfer deadline. Brown was emphatic in his assessment. "He's similar to Kieran. He's powerful, he wants to drive forward, very good crosser of the ball," Brown said. He added, "It would be a very good move for Celtic if they go and snap him up, because there's been a bid for £1.7m already, and he didn't want to go."
Why is Will Ferry linked with Celtic?
Celtic's need for defensive reinforcement is clear. The club decided against making last season's loanee Marcelo Saracchi's move permanent. Current left-back Kieran Tierney's fitness has been a recurring concern, with the player described as fragile and unable to start every match. Ferry, who was born in Bury, presents a profile that fits. He signed a three-year contract with Dundee United in 2024 after leaving Cheltenham Town and has since impressed, even scoring against Celtic in a match last March. His recent form, including setting up Jesse Randall's goal against Kilmarnock, has only heightened his profile.
What does the current squad situation look like?
Celtic's strong start to the season, sitting first with nine points from three wins, masks some squad challenges. The team has scored eight goals and conceded just two, holding a two-point lead over St Mirren. However, the injuries list is significant. Key players Alistair Johnston, Jota, Reo Hatate, Callum McGregor, and Kasper Høgh are all currently sidelined. This context makes adding reliable depth, particularly in defence, a priority before the window shuts. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming matches, including a December clash with Dundee United, on the fixtures page.
How has Will Ferry's transfer situation developed?
Ferry's availability is not a secret. Earlier this season, Czech club Sigma Olomouc tabled a £1.7 million bid for the full-back. Dundee United agreed a deal, but the player himself decided against the move to the Czech Republic. This decision has kept him in the Scottish Premiership and directly in the view of clubs like Celtic. His rejection of a concrete offer demonstrates a level of ambition and choice that could influence any future negotiations.
What happens next for Celtic?
The immediate focus is on Thursday's transfer deadline. Managerial decisions will weigh Ferry's proven Premiership ability against other targets. With a crucial away match against Dundee United, who are currently eighth, scheduled for late December, any move would add an intriguing subplot to that fixture. For now, Celtic's management must assess if Ferry is the solution to provide competition and cover for Tierney. The club's standings position is strong, but maintaining it through a long season requires a robust squad. Securing a player of Ferry's calibre could be a step towards that goal.
