Celtic linked with former Saint-Étienne and Sunderland midfielder

Although the transfer window has shut, teams are still able to sign free agents, and a new name has now emerged as a potential option for the Hoops.

Writing on his Substack, Mark Hendry noted that French midfielder Pierre Ekwah is in search of a new team following his departure from Saint-Étienne earlier this month. The 22-year-old parted ways with the club by mutual consent and is weighing up his options.

Ekwah signed for Sunderland in 2023 where he arrived from West Ham United’s academy and established himself as a consistent performer in their starting eleven. Standing out as a tall, athletic midfielder, he built a reputation for breaking up opposition attacks while also carrying the ball forward.

“Both Celtic and (the)Rangers have been made aware of a central midfielder available this month,” Hendry reported, adding that teams have already contacted his representatives about his circumstances.

Celtic have faced a thin midfield squad in recent weeks because of injuries and rotation. Although they have not yet approached Ekwah directly, his background in both English and French football could make him a tempting addition especially given Callum McGregor seems as if he is the only player that can play that ‘number six’ role, although some supporters have called for Arne Engels to be played there allowing the  Celtic captain to be pushed further forward into a ‘eight’ role.

What is clear is that Brendan Rodgers so far this season has failed to find the right combination in the middle of the park this season. The McGregor-Hatate-Nygren combination looks disjointed. Prior to Saturday, Luke McCowan, Paulo Bernardo and Arne Engels have been used as bit part players. It is an issue the manager needs to get to grips with.

The 22 year-old has ample time to develop, and being a free agent adds to his appeal since no transfer fee would be required. It’s unclear if Celtic will act, but Ekwah is now a name being discussed as a potential option for the Scottish champions, or he may still end up playing in Glasgow but not for us!

Conor Spence

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