Report: Celtic in talks with Sheffield United for defender

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The Daily Mail claim that Celtic have opened talks with newly-promoted Premier League side Sheffield United in a bid to sign right-back George Baldock.

The 26-year-old struggled to get into Chris Wilder’s side during the first half of the 2018-19 season, managing just 10 league outings before the turn of the year. He played 17 times in 2019.

Towards the end of the campaign, including the Blades’ promotion run-in, Baldock was crucial. Indeed, he missed just one of Sheffield United’s last 11 league games.

Playing as a wing-back, Baldock is comfortable in possession but has the tenacity and aggression to remain defensively solid. He also laid on three assists last season, and even scored against Swansea City.

Baldock has just 12 months remaining on his current contract, and he could be available for a bargain fee if he wants to leave Bramall Lane. But it remains to be seen what the right-back’s stance is on his future.

TBR’s view

Celtic’s need for a right-back remains, with Mikael Lustig leaving at the end of his contract and Jeremy Toljan returning to Borussia Dortmund. Anthony Ralston is yet to show why he should be first choice.

Baldock is an excellent alternative. If the defender is a target plucked out of the air by Neil Lennon, then it shows the new Celtic boss is desperate to bring in the kind of player that suits Celtic style.

That is because Baldock’s ability to keep possession and willingness to get forward is perfect for the Scottish champions. He would be an excellent signing for Lennon’s side.