Why should Celtic extend Kristoffer Ajer’s stay at Celtic Park?
According to a report from Daily Record, Celtic are set to hold talks with Kristoffer Ajer over a new contract deal.
Labelled by ex-manager, Brendan Rodgers as one of the Untouchables( one is not for sale), Ajer is one of the exciting prospects in the Scottish league.
It would be a wise decision by the Celts if they were to extend the Norwegian defender’s stay at Celtic Park. Here is why.
Ajer – a young and talented centre-back billed from Norway
Ajer made his switch from his country club IK Start to Scotland in 2016 and was loaned to fellow Scottish outfit Kilmarnock the following season.
The 21-year-old soon ingrained his name as an indispensable starter in the playing 11 since his return to the parent club and was pivotal behind the Celts’ treble-winning campaign last term.
One of his highly spoken performance was against Valencia in the Europa League game despite the Celts got knocked out in the end.
His supreme form at Scottish Premier League further extended to Norway’s senior team, with whom he has earned 10 caps till date, making his debut last year.
Celtic’s lack of depth in defence
The Hoops witnessed an exodus of defenders at the end of last season, which later forced Neil Lennon to rely highly on Ajer and Simunovic.
Besides, they have only Christopher Jullien while Nir Bitton, who is capable of playing as a midfielder and a centre-back but was highly criticized for playing in the latter role in recent times.
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That said, the Norwegian prospect should be the leader in the defence for years to come. He can also play as a defensive midfielder and as a full-back as he did in the recent Scottish Premiership game.
Final verdict
Celts were already off to a humble start to their new campaign, losing the Champions League qualification. However, Lennon can turn his focus on Europa League as they were off to a flying start in Scottish League with back-to-back big wins.
Tying up a top-rated talent like Ajer would secure the Scottish giant a bright future.