Celtic have made an official loan approach for highly-rated Manchester City defender Jahmai Simpson-Pusey CELTSAREHERE CAN EXCLUSIVELY REVEAL.
The 19-year-old centre-half is viewed as one of the brightest prospects in the Premier League 2 set-up and was named PL2 Player of the Year last season. Simpson-Pusey captained City’s youth side to their fourth Premier League 2 title, but now feels the time is right to test himself at senior level — and Celtic have taken notice.
Sources indicate the Hoops are in the mix for his signature, facing competition from multiple English Championship sides who have also made contact over a potential deal.
However, Celtic’s offer of European football and a platform at a title-chasing club could be a decisive factor in the youngster’s decision.
Simpson-Pusey is no stranger to the senior scene. He made six first-team appearances for Pep Guardiola’s side last season across all competitions, including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup. His first team debut came against none other than Celtic themselves during City’s pre-season tour of the USA last summer. Brendan Rodgers would have had a front row seat
Brendan Rodgers is actively looking to bolster his backline following departures of Maik Nawrocki and Gustaf Lagerbielke, with Stephen Welsh also expected to move on. Reinforcements are a must, and Simpson-Pusey’s profile — young, athletic, comfortable on the ball — fits the bill.
Celtic have a strong track record with City loanees and graduates. Jason Denayer impressed on a season-long loan, Paddy Roberts lit up Parkhead during the invincible campaign, and Dedryck Boyata became a mainstay after joining permanently from City’s academy and of course Jeremie Frimpong.
Now, the Hoops hope to add Simpson-Pusey to that list. The decision lies with the player, who must weigh up the guarantee of top-flight football and European exposure at Celtic Park against the regular grind of the English Championship.
With the season fast approaching, Celtic will hope for a swift answer.
