Celtic Fans Collective welcomes transfer ambition but sends clear message to Hoops board
The Celtic Fans Collective have welcomed Celtic’s ambitious summer recruitment drive — but insist the club’s spending spree shows supporters were right to demand more from the Hoops hierarchy.
Martin O’Neill has been heavily backed in the transfer market, with Celtic smashing their transfer record to land Kasper Hogh from Bodo/Glimt for £11million.
The Hoops have also spent around £6m on Camilo Duran and a similar initial figure on Haissem Hassan, whose deal could eventually rise towards £10m.
Celtic are now closing in on a £6.8m move for Paderborn midfielder Mika Baur, while Chelsea youngster Landon Emenalo is expected to arrive on a season-long loan.
Further additions could follow, with O’Neill still searching for a goalkeeper and the likes of Niko Sigur and Gvidas Gineitis among the names linked with big-money moves to the Scottish champions.
The increased investment comes after the Celtic hierarchy faced sustained criticism from supporters over recruitment failings and last season’s Champions League disappointment.
The Celtic Fans Collective, which is backed by groups including the Green Brigade, Bhoys Celtic and Celtic Trust, believes the recent business represents progress but should only be the beginning of wider change.
A statement read: “On paper, Celtic’s new signings look like strong acquisitions.
“For years, fans have demanded the club show this level of ambition, only to be told it’s not possible for various reasons – from tax laws to TV deals. Recent weeks have demonstrated fans were right all along.
“The sustained pressure and scrutiny from supporters over recent months has clearly had an impact, and the fresh approach to recruitment shows what can be achieved when fans collectively demand more.
“While there is work to be done, there has been a notable, positive shift.
“Recruitment, however, is only one area where improvement is required. We must continue to push for progress across the Club, including stronger governance, better fan engagement, investment in infrastructure and an improved matchday experience for supporters to enjoy.
“This must signal the start of a culture of accountability at Celtic FC.”
