Did we renew the right free agent this summer?

Celtic should bring Kelechi Iheanacho back if the numbers make sense.

Several players stepped up when Celtic needed it towards the end of the season. Obviously Daizen comes to mind first, also Arne Engels and Alistair Johnston. However the contribution from Iheanacho once back from injury should also be recognised. It’s great that Celtic had an option from the bench capable of stepping up and winning the game with a moment of quality when needed. The problem we have is that he’s not on the bench through choice. Kelechi certainly knows where the net is but at only 29 years of age, fitness is a real issue. That being said, if Celtic can bring him back on sensible terms, there is a genuine argument that they should. Not as the club’s first-choice striker, but as an experienced squad option capable of making an impact when it matters. Someone we can turn to in a moment of need. Someone who can nick that all important goal away from home in the Champions League.

Do the numbers add up?

There’s no doubting his quality but do the numbers make sense. Reading between the lines he would of been brought in on a hefty wage under Rodgers. A wage the club seems unwilling to continue paying. Maybe they have let his option run out to renegotiate because at a reduced salary he’s certainly worth keeping. Imagine a top forward like Kyogo as our number one striker, Kelechi coming off the bench when needed and Osmand as the third option developing nicely. That looks pretty strong and would allow us to attack on all fronts. Word is that the Nigerian striker has options in Turkey, a league that notoriously pays over the odds on wages. The player himself seems keen enough to stay based on his comments,. If that is the case and he’s willing to improve his fitness, I’d do my best to secure him for another year. We saw enough of his quality in the time he was here to know he’d be a real asset for next season if fit. If he doesn’t stay then we need to sign two forwards as Osmond, Kenny and the rumoured signing of Duran from Qarabag doesn’t fill you with confidence for the season ahead.

Fitness is the issue

Fitness and injuries may end up scuppering the deal. However I believe we saw enough from him to know he can certainly contribute again next season. We kept hearing in the media at different points that Shankland was the best striker in the league. Thats nonsense. When Kelechi is fit he’s by miles the best striker in the country. Can they get him in on reasonable terms and improve his fitness? That’s the big question. It has to make financial sense for the club but is there a better option Celtic can sign on similar wages that will guarantee you goals? The club are likely to take into consideration that theres likely no sell on with Iheanacho as well. However considering we are losing Maeda’s goals too it’s probably a risk worth taking. If wages and contract length represent good value, then the club should seriously consider it. If a deal doesn’t make financial sense then you’ve got to hope the club have identified quality replacements. Recent transfer dealings don’t make that a guarantee.

Tim Lisbon