With just weeks remaining until Greg Taylor can open discussions with other clubs about a potential move away, Brendan Rodgers has made another appeal to keep the left-back at Celtic.
The Scotland international is out of contract in the summer of 2025, meaning from January 1st, he is free to sign a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside of Scotland unless a new deal is agreed.
Speaking ahead of Celtic’s trip to face Dundee United, Rodgers reiterated his desire to keep Taylor at Parkhead, highlighting the player’s importance to the squad’s overall depth and chemistry.
While Rodgers remains optimistic, he acknowledged the club must present an enticing offer to ensure Taylor stays.
When asked about the situation, Rodgers stated: [Celtic TV]
“I would hope so; I think I’ve said it a number of times. He’s so important for our squad, Greg because when you want to build a squad, it’s never just about starters. It’s the whole squad.
“You want a depth to that, so he’s a player that I’ve really enjoyed working with so much on and off the pitch, and I’ve said it before, and I’ll repeat, I really want him to stay. I’m hoping that between the club and his representatives, we can organise a deal.
“But I also understand, he’s 27 now, this will be one of the last big contracts of his career, so we have to make sure everything is right, but what I do know is, I really want him to be here. I love working with him; I really enjoy the aspect of seeing him every day; he’s up for every training session and for me, he’s really important for us.”
The 26-year-old left-back has been a stalwart for Celtic since arriving from Kilmarnock in 2019. Under Rodgers, Taylor’s tactical awareness and work rate have made him a key figure in both defence and attack.
With January fast approaching, the pressure is mounting for Celtic to secure Taylor’s signature. If the left-back doesn’t sign an extension before the end of the year, he will be free to explore opportunities abroad.
CeltsAreHere understands that the MLS could be an option for the player, who is due to welcome his first child next year.
Should Taylor depart, Celtic would face a significant void in their defensive setup. While Alexandro Bernabei is still on the books, his future appears uncertain, especially with Internacional keen to retain him on a permanent deal after his successful loan spell in Brazil. Additionally, loanee Alex Valle has yet to establish himself, and his future beyond the summer remains unclear.
Celtic legend Neil Lennon recently emphasised the need for a left-back, echoing many fans’ sentiments. The potential departure of Taylor would only heighten the need for reinforcements in this position during the January transfer window.
