A report in Italy reveals that Celtic are interested in bringing Schalke defender Malick Thiaw to Parkhead, just as Christopher Jullien heads in the opposite direction. This comes after the news the big Frenchman is close to completing a move to the Germans after posting a picture on Instagram last night suggesting he was for the exit door.
Now, according to Italian outlet Calciomercato, Schalke’s young centre-back Thiaw is being eyed by Ange Postecoglou as his ball-playing stopper. The 20-year-old had been the subject of much interest from Liverpool, Everton and AC Milan of late. However, it would appear that the Bhoys now appear the most keen.
With the farago going on lately with the puerile actions of Jullien, it stands to reason that Postecoglou would be looking for a replacement sooner rather than later in all honesty. The last thing anyone wants is for that great team unity and harmony disrupted by the disaffected behaviour of someone on the periphery of the squad.
The figures being mentioned for the cultured Thiaw are around the €8 million mark, and would mean a very significant outlay should Celtic wish to procure the services of the young German player. Scottish broadcaster and expert on all things Bundesliga, Derek Rae, even had time to inform one intrigued Celtic fan about the fee surrounding the Schalke man.
So with Chris now looking like his relationship with the green and white hoops is at an end, could it be a case one-in-one-out at Celtic Park in the coming days regards central defenders? It promises to be intriguing that’s for sure.
Paul Gillespie
More must-reads: