Celtic are reportedly considering a £6m move for Crystal Palace star Justin Devenny. The 22-year-old has established himself as a senior player at the London club, winning the FA Cup and Conference League and famously netting the winning penalty against Liverpool in the Community Shield.
Martin O'Neill has openly admitted the Hoops have incoming business to do before Thursday's transfer deadline, with midfield a particular area of concern. They are yet to replace Arne Engels, while Reo Hatate could yet leave before the window closes.
Devenny on Celtic's radar
PSV midfielder Joel van den Berg is one target being looked at, but it has now emerged that versatile Palace star Devenny is also on the agenda. The Herald reports Celtic are considering a £6m move for the player, who has found minutes harder to come by recently.
Middlesbrough, Leicester City, Southampton, Preston North End and Cagliari have all also been credited with an interest in Devenny.
Homegrown advantage and Europa League deadline
A 14-time Northern Ireland cap, Devenny would carry the bonus of ticking a homegrown box having come through the ranks at Kilmarnock. He signed for Airdrie in 2022 and earned his move to Palace, where he has played 60 times for their first team. Primarily a midfielder, Devenny has proven himself capable at wing-back.
The transfer deadline runs until 5pm on Thursday, but if Celtic want to register Devenny in their squad for the Europa League, it would need to be rubber-stamped by 11pm on Wednesday night. It is understood interest in Devenny is independent of their pursuit of Van den Berg, as they would ideally like to get two midfielders over the line, particularly if Hatate leaves.
O'Neill has been open that he wants reinforcements before the deadline and said after their 2-1 win over Falkirk: "We're still trying to get some players in, we would need a few in obviously to supplement the squad. I'm hoping that we can get some people in before the transfer deadline."
