Godwin ObajeCeltic Set to Offload Five Players as Rodgers Plans Summer Squad Revamp
Celtic Football Club stands on the brink of a significant summer overhaul as manager Brendan Rodgers prepares to streamline his squad following the conclusion of a double-winning 2024/25 season. According to Sky Sports, the Hoops are actively seeking to move on five first-team players deemed surplus to requirements, signalling a clear intent to reshape the squad ahead of the new campaign.
The names reported to be available for transfer include winger Luis Palma, defender Gustaf Lagerbielke, centre-back Stephen Welsh, South Korean full-back Kwon Hyeok-kyu, and Australian midfielder Marco Tilio. Each of these players has found themselves on the fringes of Rodgers’ plans for various reasons, leading the club to entertain offers during the upcoming transfer window.
Rodgers’ Return and the Inherited Squad
Brendan Rodgers returned to Celtic Park in the summer of 2023, stepping into the managerial role once occupied by Ange Postecoglou, who had departed for Tottenham Hotspur. Rodgers inherited a squad with several recent signings, including four of the five players now marked for departure.
Despite these signings arriving during his initial transfer window upon return, Rodgers was not directly involved in their recruitment. His time since then has been spent evaluating the squad both in training at Lennoxtown and in competitive fixtures. This thorough assessment has led him to the tough decision to overhaul certain areas.
Luis Palma: Talent Unfulfilled at Celtic
Honduras international Luis Palma stands out among those to be moved on, both for his potential and his goal involvement tally. Since his arrival from Aris FC in August 2023, Palma has registered 20 goal involvements in 48 appearances — a respectable return by any measure.
However, Palma’s place in the squad remains uncertain. After a loan spell back to Greece with Olympiakos during the latter half of the 2024/25 season, the reigning Greek champions declined the option to make his move permanent. During this period, Palma recorded one goal and one assist, but it was not enough to convince Olympiakos to retain him.
Palma’s technical ability and pace have often shone through, yet he has struggled to consistently cement a role in Rodgers’ tactical setup. His departure appears inevitable, and Celtic will likely seek a permanent transfer that benefits both club and player.
Gustaf Lagerbielke: A Centre-Back Search Continues
The Swedish defender Gustaf Lagerbielke was brought in to fill the void left by Carl Starfelt’s summer 2023 exit to Celta Vigo. Yet Lagerbielke has struggled to establish himself as a first-choice centre-back, managing just 10 appearances since joining.
Like Palma, Lagerbielke spent the 2024/25 season on loan, this time at Eredivisie side FC Twente. His performances there have attracted interest from the Dutch club, who are reportedly keen on securing a permanent deal. Celtic’s willingness to negotiate indicates they are prepared to let Lagerbielke move on if the terms are agreeable.
Stephen Welsh: Academy Product Faces New Challenge
Stephen Welsh’s departure will mark the end of an era for a player who has served Celtic with admirable dedication. The academy graduate broke into the first team in 2020 and has made 68 appearances for the club since.
The 25-year-old defender spent the 2024/25 campaign on loan at Belgian side KV Mechelen, making 17 appearances and scoring a goal in his final match. Despite his commitment and professional attitude, Welsh looks set to continue his career elsewhere as Celtic opt to refresh their defensive options.
Rodgers’ decision to allow Welsh to leave has been met with respect, acknowledging the player’s contributions and professionalism during his time at the club.
Kwon Hyeok-kyu: A South Korean Prospect Without a Breakthrough
South Korean full-back Kwon Hyeok-kyu joined Celtic alongside compatriot Yang Hyun-jun, but unlike his teammate, Kwon has yet to make a competitive first-team appearance. Instead, he has spent much of his time on loan, featuring in 31 matches between St Mirren and Hibernian.
While the loan spells have provided valuable experience in Scotland’s top flight, Kwon has failed to convince Rodgers that he is ready to be part of Celtic’s long-term plans. As a result, he is expected to leave permanently during the summer transfer window.
Marco Tilio: Australian Talent Returning Down Under
Marco Tilio’s time at Celtic has been characterised by limited opportunities and loan spells. Since arriving from Melbourne City, the Australian has featured in just two matches for the Hoops before returning to his former club on loan.
His return to Australia has revitalised his form, and he is set to return to Celtic in the summer. However, Rodgers appears unlikely to count on Tilio in his future plans, with a permanent transfer or further loan move probable.
What Lies Ahead for Celtic?
Celtic’s willingness to move on these five players indicates a desire to rejuvenate the squad following a highly successful season domestically. Rodgers’ management style has always emphasised building a cohesive and efficient team capable of competing on multiple fronts, and the current squad overhaul is in keeping with that philosophy.
The 2024/25 campaign saw the Hoops secure the Scottish Premiership title and the Scottish Cup, yet Rodgers appears determined to avoid complacency. The transfer window will provide an opportunity to address squad depth, bring in fresh talent, and balance the books.
As always, the summer period at Celtic Park promises to be an intriguing one — with departures, arrivals, and tactical tweaks all on the agenda.
Rodgers on the Future
While Rodgers has remained characteristically tight-lipped about specific transfer dealings, his body language and approach since returning to Celtic signal a manager intent on leaving no stone unturned in pursuit of success.
One source close to the club told The Celtic Star: “Brendan wants a squad that fits his vision — players who are not just talented but also committed to the cause. The players mentioned have had their chances, and it’s now time to move on.”
Fans and Future Expectations
The news of multiple departures may unsettle some supporters, but many understand the need for evolution within the squad. The hope remains that those leaving Celtic will secure good moves that further their careers, while new additions will strengthen the squad’s competitive edge.
As Conor Spence notes, “Hopefully all of these Bhoys get decent moves in the summer and go on to have good careers in the game.”
Conclusion
In summary, Celtic’s impending summer transfer activity is set to bring considerable change to the squad. The decisions made will reflect Brendan Rodgers’ vision for a team capable of sustained domestic dominance and progress on the European stage.
How these changes unfold, and which new players arrive to fill the gaps left by the outgoing five, will be a major talking point.
Godwin Obaje
