Celtic are closing in on their seventh summer signing, with Manchester City defender Jahmai Simpson-Pusey spotted at Celtic Park on Sunday afternoon.
Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres in action with Manchester City’s Jahmai Simpson-Pusey REUTERS/Pedro Nunes
The highly-rated youngster is expected to join the champions on a season-long loan, with the deal likely to be officially confirmed on Monday once all formalities are completed. His presence in Glasgow comes just days after Brendan Rodgers publicly acknowledged the move was in the works.
Rodgers has been looking to strengthen his defensive options after a summer of changes at the back. The Irishman values physically dominant centre-halves who can operate high up the pitch, a key component of Celtic’s attacking style. Simpson-Pusey fits the profile and will provide further competition in a position Rodgers sees as vital.
The 19-year-old has been part of Manchester City’s youth system and is seen as a player with significant potential. Celtic will be hoping regular first-team football in Scotland can accelerate his development while giving the Hoops extra depth for domestic and European campaigns.
He said: (RecordSport), “We’re still waiting for clearance on that one (Simpson-Pusey). But he’s up here. And I think obviously once it’s definite, then it’ll be announced. But yes, he’s up here ready for the move.
“That area of the team is always so important. Any team, your centre-halves need to be dominant and we’ve got really good options there now.
“Your centre-halves need to be strong at Celtic. Sometimes you’re not doing a great deal. You’re stood on the halfway line and you’re attacking a lot of the time. But you also need to be able to defend space.“
Simpson-Pusey’s arrival will add to the competition for places alongside the likes of Cameron Carter-Vickers, Auston Trusty, Liam Scales, and Dane Murray. Rodgers is clearly keen to ensure there is both quality and depth in central defence.
Celtic’s high defensive line often leaves centre-halves exposed to counter-attacks, making physical strength and recovery pace crucial attributes. Simpson-Pusey’s youth and athleticism could be an asset in that regard, even if his initial appearances are limited.
Manchester City’s Ederson and Jahmai Simpson-Pusey Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Boyers
The loan deal will give the player a chance to adapt to senior football in a challenging environment while offering Celtic a no-risk way of assessing his readiness for regular action.
Rodgers has shown in the past that he is willing to give opportunities to young players if they prove themselves on the training pitch.
If clearance comes through as expected, Simpson-Pusey will be available for selection in the coming weeks as Celtic look to maintain their strong start to the league season and prepare for the return of Champions League qualifiers later this month.
