Celtic have reportedly joined the race to sign young Aston Villa forward Louie Barry, who has been recalled from his loan at Stockport County.
Celtic want to bring the young forward in permanently, but they face competition from Middlesbrough and Leeds United, who are both interested in signing the 21-year-old on loan.
Football Insider have announced that Celtic have set their sights on the former Stockport County star as they consider a permanent deal.
The Bhoys currently sit at the top of the Scottish Premiership, 15 points clear of rivals Rangers, and are in the UEFA Champions League Playoff qualifications.
How has Barry fared this season?
After an impressive first spell with Stockport, helping them win League Two, Barry re-joined County on loan, and his form has only improved this season.
During the first half of the season, Barry played a crucial role for David Challinor’s side, having the most goal contributions in the league.
In the 23 games he played, the 21-year-old scored 15 times and picked up two assists for Stockport, helping push them into a playoff battle.
Barry did not make an impact in cup competitions, though. The forward made only one appearance, coming off the bench and scoring in a 4-1 win over Accrington Stanley.
Barry had an impressive loan at Stockport before getting recalled by Villa, making 24 appearances, scoring 16 times, and assisting twice.
Celtic chasing.
According to Football Insider, Celtic want to bring in Louie Barry and are considering pushing for a permanent move.
Football Insider also reported that the Scottish Champions are looking to reinforce their left-hand side, as Honduras winger Luis Palma is set to leave the club this window on loan with an option to buy.
They may need reinforcements on the left, as Palma’s departure means they will have only Daizen Maeda as a natural left winger. Barry could help add competition and versatility to the Celtic attack.
But they face tough competition, with an array of championship sides showing interest in the prodigy, including high-riding Leeds and Middlesbrough, who want to bring Barry in on loan.
Is this a good signing?
Barry could be an excellent addition to Rodgers’ side. The winger proved his goalscoring prowess at Stockport, scoring 25 times in 46 games and picking up seven assists.
The forward is also versatile, being able to play across the front three. This could help add depth, flexibility and competition to the Celtic attack, giving them the chance to change their style of play if needed.
With big Champions League games against Young Boys and Aston Villa, adding a goal scorer to their arsenal could help improve their chances of reaching the competition’s knockout stages.
It could be a tough deal to complete, though, with several Championship sides wanting the former Barcelona youngster on loan, but the prospect of Champions League football may give the Hoops an advantage in the race for Barry’s signature.
It will be interesting to see where Barry ends up this window, with several clubs interested in signing the winger.