Brendan Rodgers believes Nicolas Kuhn’s departure to Como comes at an ideal time for Celtic, with the German winger’s exit providing both clarity and opportunity ahead of a vital summer.
Kuhn is on the brink of a £17 million move to Serie A, just 18 months after joining the Hoops for £3 million. While some fans may fear disruption ahead of the Champions League qualifiers next month, Rodgers sees it differently.
“Yes, it’s exactly that,” Rodgers told CeltsAreHere when asked if the timing helped preparations. “I think it really helps us. The earlier, the better, really. Because if a player wants to go then I don’t see the point in them hanging about. Really, if you can get the deal done and you get the valuation, what you think is right, then do it, move on and look to get the replacements in.”
The Celtic manager’s comments show a shift from past mistakes, when key players left late in the window. The early sale of Kuhn gives the club time to reinvest and integrate new signings during pre-season – something Rodgers is keen to take advantage of.
Last year, business was reactive, with Matt O’Riley’s late sale dictating the flow of signings. This time, the club has just under a month until the league campaign begins and Champions League qualifiers get underway. A replacement winger could now be brought in, given time to settle, and arrive fully sharp for the European push.
With Kuhn’s stock at its highest after a strong campaign, Celtic’s decision to sell now is not only financially sound but also strategically wise. And for Kuhn, a move to play under Cesc Fabregas in a growing Como project is a significant next step in his career.
