Have Benkovic and Ajer given Celtic fans a glimpse of life without Boyata?

Add as preferred source on Google

As the January transfer window edges closer, the future of Dedryck Boyata at Celtic is still unresolved.

Boyata’s deal expires at the end of the season and he could leave for free this summer.

Consequently, Celtic will be forced to consider bids for the Belgium international, but risk losing their best centre-back halfway through a season.

But there is life beyond Boyata at Celtic and that was showcased yesterday.

Celtic strolled through to the final of the Betfred Cup with a 3-0 win over Hearts. And Brendan Rodgers may have found his new-look centre-half partnership.

Filip Benkovic partnered Kristoffer Ajer at the back and the pair looked comfortable together.

Ajer has established himself as a regular alongside Boyata in recent years. And the Norway international now needs to step into a more senior role.

The 20-year-old stands at 6ft 5in tall and has been fantastic for Celtic.

And his new partner could be Benkovic, at least until the end of the season. The Croatia under-21 international is on loan from Leicester City this campaign.

The 21-year-old has looked solid every time he has featured for the Bhoys. Rodgers must consider these playing two together if Boyata goes.

Although Ajer and Benkovic is a very young pairing, they are both naturally talented defenders.

Both are tall, strong and up for the physical challenge and this could be a solid partnership until the end of the season.