Celtic are reportedly interested in signing Union SG’s Matthew Sorinola, who has been struggling for game time in the Belgian second division. The 22-year-old left-back, who can also play as a winger, has been linked with several clubs in England and Scotland, including Norwich City, Swansea City, Anderlecht and Rangers.
Sorinola’s career so far
Sorinola started his career at MK Dons, where he made 38 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and providing six assists. He was named the club’s Young Player of the Year in 2021, and earned a call-up to the England U20 squad. He was also nominated for the EFL Young Player of the Season award, alongside Max Aarons and Emi Buendia.
However, he rejected a new contract offer from MK Dons, and opted to join Union SG on a free transfer in July 2021. He signed a four-year deal with the Belgian club, who had just won promotion to the top flight for the first time in 48 years. Sorinola was expected to be a key player for Union SG, but he has found it hard to break into the first team, making only six appearances in all competitions, and none since November 2021.
Celtic’s left-back dilemma
Celtic have been looking for a reliable left-back for a long time, as they have struggled to replace Kieran Tierney, who left for Arsenal in 2019. They have tried various options, such as Boli Bolingoli, Greg Taylor, Diego Laxalt, Adam Montgomery and Liam Scales, but none of them have been able to nail down the position.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has made it clear that he wants to sign a left-back in the January transfer window, as he aims to strengthen his squad for the second half of the season. Celtic are currently second in the Scottish Premiership, four points behind leaders Rangers, and have also reached the last 32 of the Europa League, where they will face Real Betis.
Sorinola’s potential move to Celtic
According to Wales Online, Celtic are one of the clubs that are keeping tabs on Sorinola, who could be available for a cut-price deal, as Union SG are willing to let him go. Sorinola is said to be keen on a move back to the UK, where he has family and friends. He is also eligible to play for Nigeria, as he was born in Lagos, and has not yet made his senior debut for England.
Sorinola could be a good fit for Celtic, as he is a versatile and attacking-minded player, who can also contribute defensively. He has pace, skill, crossing ability and a good work ethic. He could also benefit from working under Rodgers, who has a reputation for developing young players and improving their confidence.
However, Celtic could face competition from other clubs, such as Norwich City, who are looking for a replacement for Jamal Lewis, who joined Newcastle United in 2020. Swansea City are also in the market for a left-back, as they have lost Jake Bidwell and Ryan Manning to injuries. Anderlecht and Rangers are also said to be monitoring Sorinola’s situation, but it is unclear whether they will make a move for him.
Celtic will have to act fast if they want to sign Sorinola, as the transfer window closes on January 31. They will also have to convince him that they can offer him regular playing time and a chance to win trophies. Sorinola could be a bargain signing for Celtic, if they can snap him up before his rivals do.
