Celtic have been linked with an audacious swoop this week according to emerging reports…
What’s the word?
As per Gianluca Di Marzio, the Scottish giants have submitted an inquiry for Juventus wing-back Mattia De Sciglio with the Italian international one of several players on the chopping block at the Serie A champions.
However, the 27-year-old isn’t convinced by a move to Celtic Park this transfer window.
He cost the Bianconeri around €12.5m (£11.4m) from league rivals AC Milan back in the summer of 2017.
Outrageous coup
It’s been a while since the Hoops have had a genuine worldwide superstar, perhaps in hindsight, you could say that Henrik Larsson was the last name to be truly recognised across the continent.
Well, if Nick Hammond can secure De Sciglio, then it would be a simply absurd coup for all involved.
This is a player that has competed in the Champions League as well as internationally at both a World Cup and a European Championship.
The versatile Italian has won three Serie A titles and has racked up 39 caps for his national side but it doesn’t just end there.
Throughout his career, De Sciglio has drawn comparisons to the legendary Paolo Maldini, even from the man himself, who said: “I think De Sciglio can follow a similar path to me at Milan. Things aren’t going too well at the moment, but he can have a career like mine.”
The 27-year-old barely played last season, starting just six games, but during the last decade, he’s averaged 2.7 clearances, two tackles, 1.3 interceptions and 0.8 key passes per game, via WhoScored.
Whilst another Milan hero, Alberigo Evani, once described De Sciglio as an “electric player” with “good technique,” noting his ability with both feet, thus opening up immense potential on either side of Neil Lennon’s 3-5-2 formation – he can even play through the middle too.
If he can be convinced otherwise, then this would be an outstanding piece of business.
AND in other news, Bye-bye Hagi: Rangers must sanction audacious swoop for Celtic target
