Celtic is gearing up for what could be a historic year in 2025, with their aspirations resting heavily on the outcomes of the January transfer window. The club is chasing glory on multiple fronts, including a potential ninth domestic treble after their recent League Cup victory against Rangers in a thrilling penalty shootout. Manager Brendan Rodgers and his squad are also on track for their second “Invincibles” season, boasting an impressive 16 wins and two draws in the Scottish Premiership.
Adding to the stakes, this season offers a chance to end a decade-long wait by advancing to the Champions League knockout stages in its newly revamped format. With two wins and three draws from six matches, Celtic is well-positioned to make history. However, to maintain their momentum across competitions, the January transfer window will be pivotal. Rodgers must strike a delicate balance between strengthening the squad and managing player departures to keep the team competitive.
Jota’s Potential Return
The prospect of Jota rejoining Celtic has fans buzzing with excitement. The Portuguese winger, who moved to Al-Ittihad in 2023 for £25 million, has struggled to find form and could be looking for a fresh start. A brief stint at Rennes failed to rejuvenate his career, and reports suggest he may be available on a loan or permanent deal. With Rodgers keen to bolster his options on the wings, Jota’s return could reignite his career while adding much-needed depth to the team.
Kieran Tierney’s Homecoming
Another potential addition is Kieran Tierney, a former Celtic star whose contract with Arsenal is nearing its end. While a pre-contract agreement is a possibility, Celtic may push to bring him back sooner. Despite his history of injuries, Tierney’s experience and leadership would be invaluable, both on the pitch and in the dressing room. Securing his return would signal Celtic’s intent to compete at the highest level this season.
Fresh Faces and Departures
Chelsea’s Carney Chukwuemeka is another name linked to Celtic. The 21-year-old midfielder has had limited opportunities this season and could benefit from a loan spell where he can gain consistent playing time. Celtic’s reputation for nurturing young talent could make them an attractive destination for Chukwuemeka, who needs regular minutes to develop further.
Meanwhile, departures may be necessary to make room for new arrivals. Stephen Welsh is reportedly set for a loan move to KV Mechelen, offering him a chance to grow as a player. Similarly, Luis Palma, who has struggled to make an impact, could be on his way out. These moves would not only free up squad space but also provide funds for reinforcements.
Securing Key Players
Retaining Cameron Carter-Vickers is another priority for Celtic. The defender has drawn interest from Bayer Leverkusen, but Rodgers has dismissed the speculation, emphasizing the club’s focus on strengthening the squad rather than losing key players. Carter-Vickers’ presence in defense is crucial for Celtic’s ambitions this season, and holding onto him would ensure stability at the back.
With the right decisions in the January transfer window, Celtic could set themselves up for a dream season. From potential homecomings to fresh talent and strategic departures, the next few weeks will be critical in shaping the club’s fortunes as they aim for domestic and E
uropean success.