Celtic have drawn up a list of Scottish left-backs as they look to bolster their defensive options ahead of the new season, with Greg Taylor expected to move on and Kieran Tierney now confirmed as the club’s first-choice left-back following his long-awaited return on a five-year deal.
The Parkhead hierarchy have turned their attention to two names in particular: Hearts standout James Penrice [RecordSport] and Scotland international Josh Doig [67HH and Ben Jacobs].
Penrice enjoyed a standout campaign at Tynecastle, emerging as a late bloomer at 26. Having joined Hearts from Livingston last summer, he wasted no time making an impression.
His consistency and reliability were recognised as he swept the board at the Jambos’ end-of-season awards, claiming both the Fans’ and Players’ Player of the Year honours.
He was also named in the PFA Scotland Team of the Year.
Meanwhile, Josh Doig has been linked with a return to Scotland.
The full-back is currently on the books of Serie A side Sassuolo, who earned promotion last season, but speculation continues over his future.
Celtic face stiff competition for his signature, with Serie A giants Juventus reportedly keeping tabs on the former Hibs man.
The 22-year-old has made 47 appearances in Italy since moving from Easter Road, but whether he would be open to swapping the Italian top flight – and a potential move to Juve – for a back up role in Glasgow remains to be seen.
