Brendan Rodgers has shed light on the ongoing transfer situations of Marco Tilio and Stephen Welsh, confirming that both players are edging closer to potential moves away from Celtic.
Tilio is expected to join Rapid Vienna on a loan with an obligation to buy if he hits 20 competitive starts.
Meanwhile, Welsh has been linked with a switch to Plymouth Argyle following a solid loan spell at KV Mechelen last season. With Celtic juggling squad depth and limited international loan slots, final decisions are still being worked through.
Rodgers asked by CeltsAreHere, acknowledged both players are open to moves and expressed hope they would secure game time elsewhere. However, he stressed that internal factors, including squad planning and loan limits, are delaying final decisions.
The Irishman’s comments provide the clearest update yet on the club’s stance, confirming that while progress is being made, nothing has been finalised for either player.
He said: “Well, what makes it difficult is that we can either sell a player or loan a player. And obviously, we only have a certain number of loans available. Internationally, there are six loans that the boys can go out on.
“So then you have to look at who is going out. Sometimes clubs will offer to buy a player, and sometimes they’ll offer to take one on loan. We need to make sure it’s the right loan.
“The two boys you mentioned have been great, and they’ve had opportunities to move on.
“I hope for them that they get the chance. But there’s a bit more behind the scenes that still needs to happen for that to take place.”
Rodgers’ comments show the challenges Celtic face as they look to reshape the squad before the new season kicks off. With only six international loan slots available, the club has to choose carefully who leaves and on what terms.
Tilio looks set for a move to Rapid Vienna, with the Austrian side keen to trigger a permanent deal if he plays enough games. The structure of the agreement suggests Celtic are ready to let the winger go after a disappointing first year in Glasgow.
Welsh, meanwhile, may be set for another loan spell, this time in the English league One. Plymouth Argyle are interested, but any move will depend on how things develop with Celtic’s defensive options in the weeks ahead.
Nothing has been confirmed yet, but Rodgers made it clear that both players are in a holding pattern, not because of a lack of offers, but because of the rules and decisions the club still need to work through.
