Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that Swedish defender Gustaf Lagerbielke is likely to leave Celtic in the summer transfer window, reports Michael Gannon from the USA.
After returning from their American tour, Lagerbielke was mainly used as a substitute in the three victories. Despite being signed for £3 million from Elfsborg a year ago, Lagerbielke almost went on loan to Lecce in January, but injuries to key centre backs forced Rodgers to keep him at the club.
With Cameron Carter-Vickers and Liam Scales currently the preferred centre back pairing, and Maik Nawrocki sidelined due to injury, Rodgers is looking to add another defender to the squad. Lagerbielke, however, is expected to be allowed to leave as he seeks regular playing time elsewhere.
Rodgers praised Lagerbielke’s work ethic and attitude, stating that while he has not seen much game time in the past, he has shown a good attitude during pre-season. The manager is also focusing on developing young academy players like Francis Turley and Colby Donovan, who got valuable minutes during the US tour.
Meanwhile, Celtic are bracing themselves for continued interest in midfielder Matt O’Riley from Atalanta, who are preparing a fourth bid for the player. Despite offers reaching up to £16 million, Celtic are holding out for around £25 million. Luis Palma, O’Riley’s teammate, expressed his desire for the midfielder to stay and joked that he would lock him in a cupboard until the transfer window closes to keep him at the club.
