Bosun Lawal returns to Celtic as Rodgers eyes a defensive midfielder

Celtic are being linked with the signing of Charles Pickel as the Scottish Champions ramp up their preparations for next season. With six games remaining of this season and two trophies to play for, the focus is fully on bringing the title and Scottish Cup back to Celtic Park.

However, behind the scenes, the club will be preparing for the 2024/25 season by scouting, identifying and assessing potential transfer targets. One name that has cropped up is Cremonese defensive midfielder Pickel.

The 26-year-old is a powerful defensive midfielder that can also fill in at RB or play further forward. His profile certainly fits the manager’s wish to get pace and power into the squad ahead of the new season.

Notwithstanding the fact that it is promising that Celtic are already underway in their preparations for next season, the club should be considering whether Bosun Lawal can play a part in the first team next season.

The Irish U21 star was a regular starter in the Celtic B Team at centre back; however, after moving to Fleetwood Town in EFL League One, the 20-year-old moved into the midfield.

Despite regular changes in the management at Fleetwood with Scott Brown, Lee Johnson and Charlie Adam all having stints in the ill-fated season, Lawal was a consistent performer.

In all competitions, Lawal made 46 appearances, scoring six times and assisting twice, which drew praise from his managers for his composure in the centre of the park.

Brendan Rodgers will likely go want to see the player back at Lennoxtown as he considers whether to loan him out again or integrate him into his first team. The Celtic manager has said that he wants to have a ready supply of talent coming through the ranks of the academy to supplement and star in the first team.