Celtic’s ongoing search for a left-back has brought Tyrell Malacia back into the conversation, with the Dutchman among those available as Manchester United look to trim their squad this summer.
The Hoops had previously monitored Malacia during the January window when Kieran Tierney was being lined up for an early return from Arsenal.
Soccer Football – Champions League – Round of 16 – First Leg – PSV Eindhoven v Arsenal – Philips Stadion, Eindhoven, Netherlands – March 4, 2025 Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri in action with PSV Eindhoven’s Tyrell Malacia REUTERS/Piroschka Van De Wouw
That move was delayed, with Jeffrey Schlupp arriving on loan from Crystal Palace to offer short-term cover for Greg Taylor. Malacia ended up joining PSV Eindhoven for the second half of the campaign, playing his part in their Eredivisie title-winning run.
Fast forward to July, and Brendan Rodgers is again weighing up options at left-back. Tierney has now officially rejoined the club, but Taylor’s departure to PAOK leaves room for another addition. With Malacia on the market and available for a cut-price deal, Celtic could revisit that earlier interest.
The 25-year-old moved to Old Trafford from Feyenoord for £13 million in 2022 but has found consistent game time hard to come by, especially after a long spell out with a knee injury.
According to The Mirror, Malacia has been granted a delayed return to pre-season at Carrington, with Manchester United aware of his desire to leave and actively working on potential exits.
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The Athletic also reports that United are prepared to offload the Netherlands international for well below the £8.3 million PSV would have had to pay to make his loan permanent, with the Premier League side struggling to attract concrete interest from other suitors.
While PSV passed on that option, Celtic could see value in a player with both Champions League experience and domestic title pedigree. With United open to negotiations and Malacia keen for a fresh start, the opportunity may now be there for the Parkhead side to strike.
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