Manny Perez needs to prove he can replace Mikael Lustig at Celtic

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As Mikael Lustig’s contract winds down, it looks increasingly likely that the right-back’s time at Celtic is coming to an end.

The 31-year-old made the switch from Norwegian side Rosenborg to Celtic in 2012 and has since played over 250 games for the club.

But Lustig’s performance levels have dropped in the past couple of seasons and he might be heading away from Celtic Park this summer.

In recent weeks, Lustig has upped his game but it might not be enough to earn him another year at Celtic.

The Sweden international is into his 30s now, his best years are behind him and Celtic might look for a younger player to replace him.

And according to The Scottish Sun, American defender Manny Perez is on trial in an attempt to win a contract.

The 19-year-old is training with the first-team, which indicates that Celtic see him as a potential immediate replacement for Lustig.

With Anthony Ralston’s progress slowing, Perez has the perfect chance to show that he is good enough to take the first-team role immediately.

The USA under-20 international is highly rated in the United States but he faces a different challenge in Scotland.

With Lustig likely to leave, Celtic might avoid signing Perez if they do not feel he is first-team ready.