Celtic completed one of their final pieces of deadline day business with the arrival of Benjamin Arthur, who joined the club on loan from Brentford.
The 20-year-old was one of three players brought in on the final day of the window and arrives with Celtic looking to bolster their defensive options for the second half of the season.
Arthur’s signing came despite his limited senior experience, with the central defender having made just three professional appearances so far in his career.
There is no option to buy included in the deal, underlining that the move is viewed primarily as short-term cover and a development opportunity.
Celtic had alternative routes open to them in January, including experienced permanent options such as Filip Benković, but ultimately opted for a loan solution as the window reached its closing stages.
Arthur has wasted no time in expressing his enthusiasm for the challenge ahead.
Speaking to Celtic TV following his arrival, he said:
“I’m really excited to be here. The facilities are great and I look forward to working here.
“It’s the right move for my development, I think I can grow and learn a lot of things here.
“Pressure’s always been part of the game but it doesn’t really affect me at all. I’ve seen the stadium and it looks amazing and I’m really excited to play in front of the fans.”
His addition to the squad had a knock-on effect elsewhere. With Arthur in the building, Celtic were able to sanction Stephen Welsh’s return to Motherwell FC on loan, a club where he impressed during the first half of the season.
