Former Celtic defender Jason Denayer is set to leave Saudi Pro League side Al Fateh, having joined the team from Emirati club Shabab Al Ahli in July 2023.

Denayer’s career hasn’t gone how many anticipated post-Celtic, with loans to Sunderland and Galatasaray, followed by a permanent move to Lyon in August 2018. He won the Scottish Premiership and League Cup during his one season on loan at Celtic, also earning the Scottish Young Player of the Year award and a place in the PFA Scotland Team of the Year.

Considering the fact that he starred alongside Virgil van Dijk during his time at Celtic, it’s incredible to see how the two players’ careers have taken such contrasting paths. The Belgian was arguably as impressive as Van Dijk during the 2014-15 season, yet while the Dutch defender went on to become one of the best in the world, Denayer’s career has not reached the same heights. Van Dijk has won numerous trophies with Liverpool, including the Premier League, FA Cup, EFL Cup, Community Shield, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup.

At 29, Denayer still has plenty to offer, and Celtic’s defensive ranks could arguably use another experienced option. Currently, Brendan Rodgers has Cameron Carter-Vickers, Liam Scales, Maik Nawrocki, Auston Trusty, Adam Montgomery, and Dane Murray as centre-back options, with Gustaf Lagerbielke and Stephen Welsh both out on loan​.

Celtic have already been active in the January transfer window, bringing Jota back to Glasgow and securing Kieran Tierney on a pre-contract​.

Whether Denayer could be tempted back for another stint in the Hoops remains an open question, but his past connection with the club ensures his name will be mentioned as speculation swirls around his next move.

With Celtic recently securing a place in the Champions League knockout playoffs, a return to the Hoops is certainly an attractive option at this stage of his career for Denayer.