Former Celtic star Chris Sutton has made a bold prediction about the future of Celtic defender Cameron Carter-Vickers, suggesting a potential £20 million transfer fee for the player in the upcoming summer.
Carter-Vickers, who has experienced an injury-riddled season, has been a pivotal figure in Celtic’s defence since his arrival from Tottenham Hotspur almost three years ago.
According to Sutton, Celtic’s transfer strategy typically involves capitalising on their outstanding talents within a three-year timeframe, aiming to sell at peak value while ensuring a succession plan is in place. In line with this model, players like Gus Lagerbielke and Maik Nawrocki were initially considered as potential successors. However, Liam Scales has stepped up as Celtic’s most reliable defender this season, with Stephen Welsh also gaining favour in Brendan Rodgers’ plans.
Sutton’s assessment, shared in the Daily Record, reflects on Celtic’s recent transfer successes, such as the sale of Jota for £25 million after an initial £6 million investment. Drawing parallels, he sees a similar trajectory for Carter-Vickers, whose value could significantly appreciate, potentially attracting a hefty transfer fee from English clubs.
Sutton also touched on the broader narrative within Celtic regarding player investments and returns. He suggests that the fans appreciate the strategy of investing in high-calibre players who not only enhance the team’s performance but also provide substantial financial returns upon their eventual transfer.
He wrote: “Celtic had to spend £6m to get Jota signed. Paying that little more ended up netting them £25m when the Saudis came calling. In the same summer, Carter-Vickers cost the same £6m. If the English do come knocking in the summer, I’d say you are looking at another £20m.
“That’s really what the fans want to see. Chunky investments bringing even healthier returns. I’m fairly sure Carter-Vickers and O’Riley will stay until at least the summer, but they’ll go one day and their bumper transfer fees when departing will just push the narrative of pay higher, sell higher. Fans just want ready-made players who can go straight into the side and make it better.”
