Report: Celtic already planning permanent bid for Shane Duffy next summer

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Celtic fans may still be awaiting the chance to see Shane Duffy make his debut for the club, but the Daily Record has suggested that the Hoops hierarchy are already planning to make a permanent bid for the centre-back next summer.

Duffy became the Bhoys’ latest signing this week as he joined on loan. The Daily Record notes that Celtic have paid £2 million to take him from Brighton, while they will also cover half of his £45,000-a-week wages.

It looks to be an incredibly shrewd signing from Neil Lennon’s side. Duffy has proved that he is an excellent defender at Premier League level. And that had been an area of the pitch where questions had been asked of Celtic’s depth.

But it would appear that Duffy may prove to not only be a temporary fix for the Hoops.

The Daily Record reports that Celtic are already planning to make his move permanent at the end of the season. It is noted that Duffy plans to assess his options, but the Scottish Premiership side are expected to be at the front of the queue.

TBR View: Low risk move from Celtic could prove inspired

In truth, it would be a major surprise if Duffy did not prove to be an excellent signing. Nevertheless, Celtic have left themselves in a fantastic position.

If the loan works out, they can look to pursue a permanent bid. But if it does not, they are seemingly under no obligation to keep him beyond this season.

Duffy has the potential to play at the highest level for a number of years yet. And Celtic look to be in a good position to make sure that he enjoys those years with them.