Celtic’s reported interest in Xaver Schlager is one of the more eye-catching links to emerge in recent days, with reports in Germany claiming Celtic are trying to get a deal done for the player. [442]
The 28-year-old central midfielder is approaching a key moment in his career. His contract with RB Leipzig expires in the summer, placing his future firmly up for debate and making him an attractive option for clubs willing to act early. Schlager remains a full Austria international, boasting 49 caps and four goals, and brings a level of experience that Celtic rarely have the chance to tap into.
This season, Schlager has featured 13 times in the Bundesliga, scoring twice, despite competition and rotation at Leipzig. His strengths go beyond numbers. He is a high-energy midfielder, comfortable operating as a six or an eight, tactically sound, and well versed in pressing systems. That profile has been shaped through spells at Red Bull Salzburg, VfL Wolfsburg, and now Leipzig, as well as regular involvement with the Austria national team.
Celtic are not alone in monitoring the situation. AS Roma and Juventus have both been linked in recent weeks, underlining the calibre of player involved. Leipzig’s own squad planning could also be a factor, with the Bundesliga club reported to be interested in Celtic’s Arne Engels, which may push Schlager closer to the exit door.
From a Celtic perspective, the appeal is obvious. Schlager would arrive as a ready-made midfielder, comfortable at European level, and capable of bringing control and intensity to the centre of the pitch. He is not a development project, but a player who could contribute immediately, particularly in high-pressure domestic fixtures.
The Hoops sit six points behind Hearts in the Premiership, with the margin for error shrinking rapidly. Reinforcements are no longer a luxury but a necessity if Celtic are to claw their way back into the title race and reassert authority domestically.
Given the calibre of the player and the wages he could demand, we’re sceptical about how serious Celtic are about signing him and if they would even be comofrtable covering his wages never mind paying a fee for him.
There is movement elsewhere. Celtic are close to completing a deal for Tomáš Čvančara, which would address one problem area, but it is clear that more than one addition is required. Midfield has been a recurring concern, particularly in terms of physicality, tempo, and experience.
In that light, a player like Xaver Schlager makes sense. Whether Celtic can compete financially with Serie A interest remains to be seen, but the opportunity is there.
