Celtic are determined to fend off any potential moves for Cameron Carter-Vickers this summer, as the defender remains a vital part of Brendan Rodgers’ long-term plans.
This insight comes from Mick Brown, a former chief scout at Manchester United and Blackburn, who maintains strong connections within the football world.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Brown emphasized that it would take a substantial fee to pry the 27-year-old away from Celtic this summer.
This development follows increasing interest in Carter-Vickers from Premier League clubs, three years after his £6million transfer from Tottenham in June 2022.
Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson revealed to Football Insider on 16 March that Everton are keen on signing Carter-Vickers to bolster their defensive options.
The centre-back’s performances this season, both in the SPFL and the Champions League, have impressed Everton’s recruitment team.
However, Celtic are eager to retain him beyond the current season as they aim to build on what has been a successful campaign under Rodgers.
Celtic to reject Everton move for Cameron Carter-Vickers:
Football Insider reported on 14 March that Celtic will demand “big money” for Carter-Vickers, as they are wary of the impact his departure could have on the squad.
Brown, who boasts extensive experience in top-level player recruitment, including over a decade at Manchester United during their most successful era, suggested that Premier League clubs are unlikely to meet Celtic’s valuation of the defender this summer.
“Carter-Vickers is an important player for Celtic,” he told Football Insider.
“He’s gone up to Scotland and made himself a key player for Brendan Rodgers.
“But I’m not quite convinced he’d play such a major role in a Premier League team.
“I don’t think there will be too many clubs after him unless the asking price is one that suits them, but Celtic aren’t going to let him go for cheap.
“They don’t want to lose him and I expect they’ll be prepared to turn down the interest in him.
“They’re in the Champions League and always competing for all of the domestic trophies, so I don’t think he’s going to have his head turned.
“Like I say, I think it would be a surprise if he moved back to the Premier League, not just because Celtic don’t want to sell but because there are better options out there.”
Brendan Rodgers targets Kyogo Furuhashi replacement:
While Celtic are focused on retaining their key players, they are also planning to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.
Football Insider revealed on 14 March that Celtic are looking to sign a top-tier striker this summer after failing to secure any major deals in the January transfer window.
Rodgers is keen to find a replacement for Kyogo Furuhashi, whose departure during the mid-season transfer window left a significant void in the squad.
Furuhashi’s £10million move to Rennes has provided Celtic with funds to invest in the summer, and the club intends to use that money to secure a suitable replacement.