Report: Celtic Target Prolific Playmaker

Celtic are reportedly one of several clubs monitoring Armenian playmaker Eduard Spertsyan, with the attacking midfielder emerging as a target following another standout campaign for Russian champions Krasnodar.

The 24-year-old has enjoyed a prolific 2024/25 season, netting 11 goals and providing 7 assists in 28 Russian Premier League appearances. A creative force operating primarily in the number 10 role, Spertsyan has also featured effectively on both wings, demonstrating versatility across the frontline.

Soccer Football – Russian Premier League – Krasnodar v Dynamo Moscow – Krasnodar Stadium, Krasnodar, Russia – May 24, 2025 Krasnodar’s Eduard Spertsyan celebrates scoring their third goal REUTERS/Sergey Pivovarov

Spertsyan was instrumental in Krasnodar’s title-winning campaign, pulling the strings in the final third and consistently delivering moments of quality. His influence in attack was clear to see throughout the season, regularly creating chances and chipping in with crucial goals. Despite not being an out-and-out striker, he carried a significant attacking threat, often drifting into dangerous areas and dictating play around the box.

He’s most effective on his right foot, capable of picking out passes and striking the ball cleanly. There’s still room for improvement, especially when it comes to his defending and keeping the ball under pressure. But he’s reportedly strong on the ball, composed in tight spaces, and has real quality from set-pieces — all signs of a player who could make the step up.

Given the current climate in Russia, any deal involving a Russian club is complex. However, Celtic have history, with the likes of Carl Starfelt, Sead Haksabanovic and Oliver Abildgaard all arriving from Russian sides during earlier stages of the Ukraine conflict. Though each transfer was unique, the moves showed that with the right conditions and timing, deals can be struck.

Spertsyan’s contract is believed to run until the summer of 2026. He’s currently valued between £15m and £21m, but if there’s any doubt about his future beyond this season, Krasnodar might be open to negotiating a lower fee to avoid losing him for nothing.

Soccer Football – UEFA Nations League – Group E – Republic of Ireland v Armenia – Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Republic of Ireland – September 27, 2022 Armenia’s Eduard Spertsyan celebrates scoring their second goal Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduff

Interest is reportedly mounting from elsewhere. Leeds United, newly promoted to the English Premier League, and Portuguese giants Porto are also said to be in the mix. Both clubs are known for sharp recruitment and profitable player development, which highlights the calibre of competition Celtic face.

Any move for Spertsyan would likely signal a reshaping in Celtic’s midfield. But his output and profile suggest he’s a player worth watching.

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