Canadian winger Tajon Buchanan surely must catch Celtic’s attention

One name that might be worth keeping an eye on is Tajon Buchanan. The Canadian wide man is currently on the books at Inter Milan but spent the second half of last season on loan at Villarreal. The Spanish side had an option to buy but chose not to take it up and now Inter seem willing to let him go — either permanently, which seems their preference, or perhaps in the absence of a permanent deal, on another loan.

Video Celts mentioned the player as a possibility back at the beginning of June, but there’s be no mention since then. However reports from Italy over the last couple of days indicate the player is available and Italian side Sassuolo recently had a bid rejected for the winger.

Buchanan, 25, plays alongside Celtic’s Alistair Johnston for the Canadian national team. If there’s any chance Celtic are considering a move, Johnston might be in a position to give Buchanan a nudge in the right direction.

On the pitch, Buchanan brings plenty of pace and is comfortable running at defenders. He’s been used as a winger, a wing-back, and even occasionally as a full-back, which could suit Celtic’s flexible system. His defensive work can be hit-or-miss, something that has arguably impacted his ability to play as a wing back in Serie A, but he’s got attacking ability — and that’s something Celtic could use on the right.

Financially, Inter are thought to be looking for around €8–12 million, which is at the higher end of what Celtic usually spend. But if a loan deal with an option to buy is on the table, it’s something the club could explore — especially if other targets prove too expensive or unavailable.

As of now, there’s been no solid link between Celtic and Buchanan. Most of the talk has come from fans and the media picking up on the Inter transfer list and making connections due to the Johnston link.

If Rodgers is looking for an athletic, fast, running wide option, then he’s a player who could add something different. With a tight fixture schedule and European football to consider, having another quick, versatile wide player in the squad could make a big
difference.

It’s all speculation for now — but if Celtic are in the market for a right-sided option, Buchanan is one to keep in mind. And if Alistair Johnston could put in a good word with his international teammate, all the better.

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