Celtic Move for EFL Talent Signals Active Summer Transfer Window | OneFootball

Celtic are wasting no time in the transfer market, with reports confirming their interest in Peterborough United full-back Harley Mills...

Harley Mills of Peterborough United poses for a photo with the Vertu EFL Trophy following the team’s victory during the Vertu EFL Trophy Final match between Birmingham City and Peterborough United at Wembley Stadium on April 13, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

The young defender, who only a year ago was playing non-league football with Enfield, has made a rapid ascent and now finds himself on the radar of top-flight clubs. Fulham have already tabled a £1 million bid, but Celtic’s entry into the race could change the dynamic. With Kieran Tierney returning to Parkhead from Arsenal, Brendan Rodgers is keen to build depth in the left-back position ahead of a demanding season.

Greg Taylor at the final whistle with Dundee United goalkeeper Jack Walton after the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Dundee United at Celtic Park, on 8th January 2025. (Photo Mark Runnacles)

Greg Taylor’s contract expiry and Jeffrey Schlupp’s return to Crystal Palace have left a noticeable gap in Celtic’s defensive unit. Rodgers views Mills as a long-term prospect, someone who can develop behind Tierney while offering immediate backup. His emergence at Peterborough has been impressive, earning praise for both his defensive intelligence and attacking drive. Celtic are also monitoring Keita Kosugi and Veljko Milosavljevic, but Mills appears to be the more attainable target in the short term.

Transfer developments like these don’t just excite fans — they’re increasingly impacting the world of online sports betting. With more punters turning to betting sites that are not on GamStop, the appeal lies in their flexibility and broader markets. Unlike traditional UK-regulated platforms, these sites often offer odds on a variety of transfer-related outcomes, such as whether a player will sign before a deadline or which club he’s most likely to join. The ability to bet beyond matchday outcomes gives bettors more dynamic options — particularly during the summer window when speculation runs high.

Harley Mills of Peterborough United celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Vertu EFL Trophy Final match between Birmingham City and Peterborough United at Wembley Stadium on April 13, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

The potential arrival of Mills adds more than just depth to Celtic’s roster — it strengthens their domestic and European ambitions. While young, his performances in the EFL Trophy and League One have shown a maturity beyond his years. Rodgers has a history of nurturing young talent, and Mills could be the next in a long line of promising players developed under his watch. For Mills, the chance to train alongside a returning Tierney would be a significant step up in his career trajectory.

Beyond the Mills pursuit, Celtic’s wider transfer activity hints at an aggressive rebuild. With the Scottish Premiership becoming more competitive and European qualification rounds looming, Rodgers needs to strike early. Interest in Veljko Milosavljevic, despite a rejected bid, shows the club’s intent to bring in technically gifted, high-ceiling players. The Serbian player’s valuation at £8.4 million may seem steep, but it reflects the inflated market and Red Star’s reluctance to sell too soon.

Kieran Tierney of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brentford FC at Emirates Stadium on April 12, 2025 (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)

From a footballing perspective, the Tierney-Mills dynamic could echo the successful blend of experience and youth Celtic often aim for. Mills would likely be integrated gradually, used in cup games and rotated during congested fixture periods. With Taylor likely heading abroad — PAOK, Dinamo Zagreb, and several MLS clubs have shown interest — the opening for Mills is real and imminent. His profile fits Rodgers’ model: hardworking, technically solid, and eager to prove himself.

James Forrest is congratulated by teammate Virgil van Dijk after scoring the opening goal during the UEFA Champions League Group match between Celtic and Ajax at Celtic Park Stadium on October 22, 2013 (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

These sorts of under-the-radar signings have historically paid off for Celtic. Players such as Virgil van Dijk and Moussa Dembélé were snapped up young and sold for significant profits after thriving in Glasgow. Mills may be a few years off that level, but his sharp development curve suggests he could be another clever investment. The fact he was playing non-league football just last season adds to the romance — and intrigue — of the potential deal.

James Forrest and Moussa Dembele with the trophyl after Celtic’s League Cup Final win over Motherwell at Hampden on 26 November 2017. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

The competition from Fulham may pose a threat, especially with Premier League football to offer. However, Celtic’s pitch involves guaranteed first-team involvement, European football, and a clear path to progression. For a young player eager to make his mark, that can often outweigh the prestige of a Premier League bench. Brendan Rodgers’ track record with young British players could prove decisive if it comes down to persuasion.

Harley Mills of Peterborough United celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Vertu EFL Trophy Final match between Birmingham City and Peterborough United at Wembley Stadium on April 13, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

As the window continues to heat up, Celtic supporters can expect more movement. The Hoops are determined to refresh key areas before Champions League qualifiers begin. Whether Harley Mills becomes their first official signing remains to be seen, but his rise is already a story worth following — and possibly betting on.

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Celtic Move for EFL Talent Signals Active Summer Transfer Window

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