Celtic Receive Boost In Pursuit Of This Defensive Target: Why They Must Snap Him Up In A Cut-price Deal0 | OneFootball

If the reports from France are believed to be true, Celtic have received a boost in pursuit of Étienne Youte. They are keen to explore an excellent market opportunity, as the cash-strapped Le Havre are willing to let their star centre-half part ways in a cut-price deal rather than losing him for nothing upon the expiration of his Stade Océane contract in the summer of 2026.

Jean-Michel Roussier, the club president, told Paris Normadie (as quoted by The Daily Record), while discussing the setback of losing players as free agents. Le Club Doyen are expected to accept an offer of around £4.3m for Youte, which has now alerted the Bhoys. But they are not alone in the hunt, with Besiktas and Anderlecht also keeping tabs on his situation.

The 23-year-old former French youth international progressed through the academy ranks of FC Trainel, FC Nogentais and Troyes in his homeland before plying his trade in Italy to join the heavyweights Inter Milan. After spending two years with the reserves, Youte was snapped up by Greek giants Olympiacos for their youth side. There, he spent one and a half years ahead of a return to France with Le Havre in January 2023.

EINDHOVEN, NETHERLANDS – AUGUST 18: Etienne Ludovic Youte Kinkoue of Inter clears the ball away from Jeremy Antonisse of PSV during The Otten Cup Final match between PSV Eindhoven and Internazionale or Inter Milan held at De Herdgang, the training ground & youth academy field of PSV Eindhoven on August 18, 2019 in Eindhoven, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

The Normandy side, then competing in Ligue 2, clinched the second division title a few months later. The youngster was sporadically involved en route to clinching a top-flight promotion, but was eventually handed a regular role over the past couple of campaigns. He helped the Sky and Navy escape relegation, as they finished just a point above the drop zone two months back.

Why Celtic Must Restore Parity In Deep Defence

Celtic have Cameron Carter-Vickers, who remains irreplaceable in the heart of the backline. Auston Trusty and Liam Scales should challenge each other to partner with the USMNT international, but the Scottish champions have sanctioned the departures of Maik Nawrocki and Gustaf Lagerbielke. The latter left for Braga, whereas Nawrocki joined Hannover 96 on loan, having failed to secure ample gametime under Brendan Rodgers.

The misfortune continues for Stephen Welsh, as the Scotsman sustained a shoulder injury during their pre-season clash against Cork City. Although the Hoops have roped in Hayato Inamura, the summer recruit from Albirex Niigata has primarily featured as a left fullback in the friendly fixtures.

Dane Murray, the exciting academy graduate, is enjoying a boisterous pre-season. However, the gaffer must snap up another senior centre-back to maintain depth, balance and quality across the domestic and European competitions.

Youte, being 6 ft 5 in, offers aerial supremacy at both ends. While he was below par last season, a fresh start in Glasgow must be a welcome boost for the defensive prospect. He would chase silverware at Parkhead over fighting for survival, and the tutelage of Rodgers should see him flourish in Scottish football.