Celtic are reportedly in the mix to sign West Ham midfielder Andy Irving this summer. The Hoops are not the only side interested, but they are currently seen as the most likely destination if a move goes ahead.
Hearts, where Irving began his career, are also keeping an eye on the situation. The Tynecastle club are believed to be interested in bringing him back. Several clubs in England’s Championship have also shown interest, but Celtic’s position looks strongest at the moment.
Soccer Football – Premier League – Newcastle United v West Ham United – St James’ Park, Newcastle, Britain – November 25, 2024 Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak in action with West Ham United’s Jarrod Bowen and Andy Irving REUTERS/Scott Heppell EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NO USE WITH UNAUTHORIZED AUDIO, VIDEO, DATA, FIXTURE LISTS, CLUB/LEAGUE LOGOS OR ‘LIVE’ SERVICES. ONLINE IN-MATCH USE LIMITED TO 120 IMAGES, NO VIDEO EMULATION. NO USE IN BETTING, GAMES OR SINGLE CLUB/LEAGUE/PLAYER PUBLICATIONS. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE FOR FURTHER DETAILS..
A move to Celtic would give Irving the chance to play regular European football and compete for trophies. That may prove too good to turn down, especially when compared to other options on the table.
Journalist Scott Burns has reported that Brendan Rodgers is targeting two midfielders this summer. The Irishman wants to add a defensive option to compete with Callum McGregor and also bring in a more box-to-box type of player. Irving could be a good fit for one of those roles.
He said: (Hotline Live), “Well, it would certainly fill in to what Brendan Rodgers is looking for.”
“This summer, two central midfielders are definitely on his wish list and a winger. And he’s obviously well on the road with his winger when he’s got a Benjamin Nygren.”
“And he also fits the home-grown build, which is important for the European stage now for this Celtic squad. So I don’t think it would be a bad bit of business, but certainly Brendan Rodgers wants to get two in that area, a defensive midfielder and a box-to-box midfielder.”
“So you would expect that one to tick the boxes in there.”
Celtic are building for another big season, both in Scotland and in Europe. Rodgers wants his midfield to be stronger and more flexible. Irving is known for being good on the ball and strong in tackles, with the ability to carry the ball forward when needed.
Soccer Football – Premier League – West Ham United v Fulham – London Stadium, London, Britain – January 14, 2025 West Ham United’s Andy Irving comes on as a substitute to replace Carlos Soler REUTERS/Tony O Brien EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NO USE WITH UNAUTHORIZED AUDIO, VIDEO, DATA, FIXTURE LISTS, CLUB/LEAGUE LOGOS OR ‘LIVE’ SERVICES. ONLINE IN-MATCH USE LIMITED TO 120 IMAGES, NO VIDEO EMULATION. NO USE IN BETTING, GAMES OR SINGLE CLUB/LEAGUE/PLAYER PUBLICATIONS. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE FOR FURTHER DETAILS..
Having spent time in Austria and then moving to West Ham, Irving has picked up experience at different levels. He’s still only 25 and fits the homegrown rule for European competition, which is a big plus for Celtic when registering squads.
The Hoops are not short on midfielders, but Rodgers clearly wants more competition and depth. McGregor has played a huge number of games over recent years and adding someone who can either play alongside him or give him a rest is smart planning.
Hearts will hope their past connection with Irving can help, but they can’t compete with what Celtic can offer. The lure of European football and playing under a top manager like Rodgers could seal the deal.
With a few key additions, Rodgers will be confident his squad can go again next season and aim to make a better impact in Europe while staying ahead in the league.
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