Niko Sigur Could Be the Perfect Celtic Signing After Alistair Johnston Injury Blow
Aodhán Ó Conchobhair Celtic’s right-back situation has suddenly become one of the most interesting stories of the final weeks of the transfer window.
Alistair Johnston’s injury has arrived at an unfortunate time, with the Canadian already attracting Premier League interest from Everton.
And once again, one name has emerged from Celtic’s transfer plans.
Niko Sigur.
The 22-year-old Canadian international has been on Celtic’s radar before, with reports in January claiming a move was close before the deal was ultimately put on hold. Now, with Johnston facing an injury concern, Celtic have reignited their interest.
It could be a very smart move.
A Replacement Who Isn’t Just a Replacement
The obvious attraction is that Sigur can play right-back.
But that’s not all he offers.
The Hajduk Split player is also capable of operating in defensive midfield, giving Martin O’Neill another option in an area where Celtic could soon require reinforcements.
That versatility is incredibly valuable.
Rather than signing somebody purely to sit behind Johnston, Celtic would be bringing in a player capable of competing for minutes across two positions.
And at 22, there is plenty of room for him to develop.
The Johnston Situation Makes It Even More Important
Celtic had hoped to keep Johnston through the crucial Champions League qualifiers despite interest from Everton.
Now, his injury has complicated the situation further.
Reports suggest the injury could force Celtic to consider their options at right-back, while potentially affecting Johnston’s proposed move to the Premier League.
That’s exactly why Sigur makes sense.
If Johnston stays, Celtic have genuine competition.
If Johnston leaves, Celtic already have someone capable of stepping into the position.
A Familiar Face for Johnston
There is another interesting element to the potential transfer.
Sigur and Johnston are international teammates with Canada.
That could make the transition to Glasgow considerably easier.
Sigur would already know one of Celtic’s key players and would have someone capable of helping him settle into life at the club.
There is also a clear connection in terms of position.
Johnston himself has previously played alongside Sigur for Canada, while Sigur has experience filling in at right-back despite his ability to play centrally.
Another Sign of the Recruitment Strategy
This is also exactly the type of transfer Celtic appear to be pursuing under Martin O’Neill.
Young.
Internationally experienced.
European experience.
Multiple positions.
Room to improve.
Sigur isn’t arriving as a finished superstar.
But he doesn’t need to.
Celtic need players who can contribute now while potentially becoming significantly more valuable over the next few years.
Sigur fits that description.
Key Takeaways
- Celtic’s right-back situation becomes crucial after Alistair Johnston’s injury amid Premier League interest.
- Niko Sigur, a versatile 22-year-old Canadian international, may be the answer for Celtic, able to play both right-back and defensive midfield.
- Sigur’s potential transfer increases competition for Johnston and provides depth if Johnston leaves the club.
- Sigur and Johnston are teammates for Canada, which could ease Sigur’s transition to Celtic.
- This move reflects Celtic’s recruitment strategy, focusing on acquiring capable players who can fulfil multiple roles.
The fact he knows someone already would’ve worked had we re-signed Saracchi, Duran has no one to speak Spanish with, maybe Jota can speak Espanyol.
No matter, id like to see Sigur as part of our squad.
Hassan speaks fluent Spanish after 7 years in la liga.So does Jota who is training with the group.Duran will be fine.