Why Aaron Hickey would be a future investment for Celtic
According to Daily Record, Celtic are interested in signing Aaron Hickey, their former youth prospect, in the summer. But Heart of Midlothian boss Robbie Nielson is keen to tie down the left-back to the club, as per the report.
The 18-year-old came through the ranks of Heart of Midlothian’s youth system and joined Celtic’s U17 side in the summer of 2017. After a year, he was sent back to Hearts on a free transfer. However, since his return, his rise to the top has rather been a swift one.
The youngster made his breakthrough last season and is also the youngest player to take part in a Scottish Cup final. Hickey had been outstanding in 2019/20 despite the Hearts’ dismal season. His impressive performances have also attracted interest from Bayern Munich, Manchester City, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Crystal Palace, as per the report.
Celtic have been crowned as the Scottish Champions for the ninth time in as many years after the season was ended prematurely. Celtic boss Lennon has managed to get the best out of every department. While the attacking unit has scored 89 goals, the defence has conceded just 19 so far as they boast of the best defensive record in the league.
However, it is time for the manager to look at the future and make some changes to the squad. They could lose some of their best players this summer and thus, Lennon should bring in reinforcements to multiple key areas.
Hickey – A future left-back for Celtic
One area the manager should look to strengthen is the left-back position. Boli Bolingoli and Greg Taylor are the two left-backs available at the manager’s disposal. But they have not cemented a spot for themselves in the starting XI.
Bolingoli featured earlier in the campaign but after his return from injury, he has not been the same. In 14 league games, he contributed with just 2 assists. Taylor has contributed with 5 assists in as many games. Thus, bringing in a left-back would be the right solution by the club.
In that regard, signing Hickey would be a good option for the future. Despite his tender age, he has been a regular starter and has contributed with 1 goal and 1 assist. He would definitely bring competition to Lennon’s squad if he joins them, adding more depth to the left-back department.
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Verdict
Hickey is just 18 and has already shown signs of promise. He would provide the Hoops with the much-needed depth in the squad. And under the guidance of Lennon, the Scottish U19 international can develop and grow into a key player in the coming years. Thus, they should lure Hickey back to Celtic Park this summer.
