The Scottish champions are in need of a new left-back following the departure of Greg Taylor
(Image: Manchester United via Getty Imag)
Celtic have been given the green light to sign Manchester United full back Tyrell Malacia – if they revive their January interest.
The Scottish Premiership champions were on the hunt for a left-back in the winter window after failing to get bring Kieran Tierney in early from Arsenal despite having a pre-contract agreement in place.
The Mirror now report that Malacia has been allowed to report back for pre-season at Carrington late as they seek moves away, having told the club they are keen to move on.
The left-back has been out on loan at PSV Eindhoven, who decided not to make his loan move permanent for £8.3m despite helping the club lift the Eredivise title.
(Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Celtic had cut short Alex Valle’s loan spell from Barcelona to allow the youngster to join Como – leaving Greg Taylor as the only recognised left-back at the club.
Jeffrey Schlupp would come in from Crystal Palace on loan to provide cover for Taylor while Malacia would spend the rest of the season at PSV Eindhoven – but is’s a case of deja vu this summer for Brendan Rodgers with the Hoops searching for a left-back again.
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Tierney has now arrived by Scotland cap Taylor has made the move to PAOK – leaving the door open for the Dutchman to arrive in Glasgow’s east end.
Malacia signed from Feyenoord for around £13million four years ago but has struggled to make an impact at Old Trafford.
The Athletic claim that United are willing to accept significantly less than the buyout clause at this stage of the window to offload the 25-year-old as they struggle to “drum up suitors” in the Netherlands international.
Former Rangers boss Dick Advocaat has offered a bumper recommendation to Celtic after his performances for the Dutch champions last season.
He interested parties that the best is yet to come from Malacia – having previously managed him during his time at Feyenoord.
Speaking to Feyenoord Pings, the veteran boss said: “I know that he hasn’t played for Manchester United for almost a year and a half, but this boy has a good head.
“At Feyenoord I saw that he is made of the right stuff. I am convinced of that; Tyrell is a real winner.
“Tyrell is good on the ball, and don’t underestimate his defensive qualities. Tyrell may not be that big, but he holds his own. At Feyenoord he always went into battle. He is also really not afraid of anyone.”
