Celtic have confirmed the signing of Uruguayan full-back Marcelo Saracchi, with the deal announced on Friday night just 48 hours before the Hoops head across the city for the first Glasgow derby of the season.

The 27-year-old joins on a season-long loan from Boca Juniors, adding valuable depth to Brendan Rodgers’ defensive options at a crucial point in the campaign. Importantly, Saracchi is registered in time and will be eligible to take his place in the matchday squad at Ibrox on Sunday.

Celtic travel into enemy territory six points clear of Rangers, and the addition of Saracchi hands Rodgers another option as he plots to extend that gap even further. With Alistair Johnston sidelined and Kieran Tierney still working back to full sharpness, the Uruguayan’s versatility on either side of defence could be useful.

Saracchi arrives with pedigree, having played for clubs including River Plate, RB Leipzig, Galatasaray and Levante before his move to Boca Juniors. Once tipped as one of South America’s brightest talents, his career has taken him across continents, and now Glasgow becomes the latest stop in his journey.

The deal has been struck without an option to buy, making it a short-term solution for Celtic as they balance first-team needs with the development of younger players like Hayato Imamura who is expected to go out on loan. However, the immediate priority is results, and Rodgers will be pleased to have another international-quality defender available for selection.

The Ibrox clash comes at a decisive early stage in the season. A Celtic win would stretch their lead over Rangers to nine points, sending a strong message in the title race before the international break. On the flip side, defeat would breathe life back into Russell Martin’s side.