As the summer transfer window inches closer to its conclusion, Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has clarified the club’s stance on recruitment.

Addressing the media on potential transfers, Rodgers emphasised the importance of quality over age in Celtic’s transfer signings.

“We want good players, whatever age they are,” Rodgers told Callum McFadden, underscoring the club’s primary focus on enhancing the squad’s overall quality. “We need quality, that’s for sure, so hopefully, between now and the end of the window, we can improve the squad on that.”

While Celtic has been known for its model of recruiting younger talents, nurturing, and developing them in recent years, Rodgers indicated that the club is not averse to signing experienced players if they can add value. “Clearly, the model within the club is to bring younger players in of a younger age and develop them and improve them, but we’re not against bringing someone in who’s 26/27 if they can improve the squad,” he added.

This statement comes amidst speculations linking Celtic to seasoned players like Ryan Fraser and Daniel Podence. Both players, in their late twenties, have been rumoured to be on Celtic’s radar this window.

Rodgers’ comments suggest a pragmatic approach to the transfer market, indicating that while the club values youth development, they are also open to immediate quality additions that can bolster the squad for the challenges ahead, and after Sunday’s performance, more quality is needed swiftly.