Rodgers wants McNair and three more players this summer

Brendan Rodgers has stated he would like to sign another four players before the transfer window closes at the end of the month.

The Celtic manager spoke after the Hoops lost 3-1 in Dublin to Barcelona, and feels that he needs to add more quality to his squad.

Leigh Griffiths was on the scoresheet again for Rodgers’ side as three first-half goals from the Catalan giants sealed a comfortable win in the end.

There were still plenty of positives for Celtic to take from the game which can be brought forward to Wednesday’s all-important Champions League tie against Astana at Paradise.

As quoted by the Herald Scotland about possible signings, Rodgers said:

Probably ideally I would like another four. We shall see. It just takes time.

I respect that and understand that but in terms of assessing the squad before I came in and likewise having been in now for six weeks or so that is what I would say we would be at.

Celtic have been mulling over the prospect of submitting a fourth bid for Aston Villa winger Scott Sinclair, whom John Kennedy admitted Celtic were interested in earlier this week.

Another potential signing for Rodgers is Manchester United defender Paddy McNair, who is set to move on loan as Jose Mourinho culls his own squad and wants the 21-year-old to get more first-team experience.

The centre-back has made 27 appearances for United since his debut almost two years ago and also has 11 caps for Northern Ireland.

Speaking about his fellow countryman and former player, Rodgers added:

I can’t deny or say yes or no on that [Paddy McNair interest] because there have been so many players who have been thrown our way or linked with Celtic so I can’t comment on everyone.

Scotty is a young talented lad that I know really well but he is still an Aston Villa player. Until anything done there is nothing to say.

Any signings will likely be put on hold until after Celtic’s crunch second leg in the third qualifying round, although there is still a possibility of reaching a deal before then.