Pundits debate over Celtic move for Premier League veteran | OneFootball

Former Celtic striker Andy Walker has suggested that the Scottish Champions could turn to Jamie Vardy as Brendan Rodgers looks to add attackers to his squad. Adam Idah, Johnny Kenny and Shin Yamada make up the central options for Celtic but none have stood out massively in the opening three competitive games with a general consensus that a striker is needed.

Speaking to Go Radio Football Show, Walker said that Celtic could turn to the 38-year-old Vardy, who is available as a free agent having left Leicester at the end of last season.

“Brendan Rodgers would know the player, his ability, his fitness levels.

“I know he’s 38 but I’m sure you could get another season out of him if he is still really fit, well and sharp. No one would know that better than Brendan Rodgers.

“Whether he is on the list, I’m sure they’ve got strikers they are looking at.”

Meanwhile ex-Rangers coach Billy Dodds, who wasn’t out the dugout long before returning to punditry, suggested that Vardy’s wages combined with the fact that he might not be a guaranteed starter might scupper a move.

“He would cost a lot in wages but he wouldn’t cost a lot in transfer fee because he’s a free. It wouldn’t be a daft one, but they’ll probably have other signing targets in the striking position before Vardy.

“The one thing I would add is that I’ve been reading that he wants to play. I don’t think he’s guaranteed that at Celtic playing week in, week out.

“When you get someone of that experience and he’s not playing, I’m not saying he wouldn’t be happy but he’s already made it clear he wants to go somewhere and play every game before he finishes his career.”

Rodgers used his Leicester contacts to bring Kasper Schmeichel to Paradise and the experience and quality that the Great Dane has brought to the team has been invaluable. Vardy is a unique talent, even if he is nearing 40. The striker showed during a decade in the English top flight that he is a consistent, formidable striking option. Celtic could certainly do a lot worse. Although, he would be a stopgap fix and doesn’t scream longterm planning from the club.