Celtic have reportedly joined the growing list of admirers tracking Barcelona-born winger Raul Moro. [MailSport] At just 21 years old, the Spain U21 international has already experienced the highs and lows of professional football, making his mark across Spain and Italy. With his career gathering momentum at Real Valladolid, could Moro be the next rising star to light up Celtic Park?
From La Masia to Serie A: Moro’s Journey So Far
Moro began his footballing journey at Espanyol before making the prestigious switch to Barcelona’s La Masia academy. Recognised as a standout talent, he was snapped up by Lazio in 2019. A year later, the then-17-year-old made his Serie A debut against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Juventus, a sign of the faith Lazio had in his potential.

In total, Moro made 19 appearances for Lazio, registering one assist, but consistent first-team football proved elusive. To aid his development, the club sent him on loan spells to Ternana Calcio in Serie B and Real Oviedo in Spain’s second division. However, it was at Real Valladolid where Moro’s career truly blossomed. He played a crucial role in their promotion to La Liga last season, earning a permanent move in the summer.
This term, Moro has taken his performances to another level, contributing four goals and two assists in 19 appearances. His impressive form has not gone unnoticed, with Ajax among the clubs reportedly keen on securing his signature.
Playing Style: A Perfect Fit for Celtic?
Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic side thrives on technical ability, high pressing, and fluid attacking movement. This style of play would suit Moro perfectly. A naturally skilful and agile winger, he has the flair and technical precision needed to break down stubborn defences, a key trait given Celtic’s dominance in the Scottish Premiership.
Primarily operating from the left wing, Moro’s pace and ability to beat his marker in one-on-one situations make him a constant threat. But his game is not just about individual brilliance. His footballing education at La Masia is evident in his intelligent movement and link-up play, traits that would complement Celtic’s emphasis on positional rotation and high-tempo passing.
Moreover, Moro has shown a growing eye for goal, as evidenced by his tally this season at Valladolid. His ability to contribute both goals and assists would add an extra dimension to Celtic’s attacking arsenal, and take some of the burden off current winger Daizen Maeda whose absence recently has been felt.

Adapting to Life in Scotland
While Moro’s talent is clear, adapting to the physicality of Scottish football could pose a challenge. The Premiership demands grit as much as skill, and players new to the league often require time to adjust. However, Celtic’s history of developing young talent from diverse footballing backgrounds should provide reassurance.
Players such as Kuhn, Kyogo, even Maeda have thrived under Celtic’s guidance, and Moro could be next in line. Under Rodgers’ guidance, the young Spaniard would have the opportunity to refine his game while competing for silverware on multiple fronts, as well as playing Champions League football.
Competition for Moro’s Signature
Celtic may face stiff competition for Moro, with Ajax already publicly declaring their interest. Given his performances in La Liga this season, other European clubs are likely to join the race. However, Celtic’s reputation as a nurturing ground for young players and their passionate fanbase could be a persuasive factor in attracting the Spanish starlet.
With anything in the transfer window, you have to allow for the possibility that the selling club is using Celtic’s name to push other suitors to up their bids. While the Hoops do want to bring in a winger this month, it remains to be seen if they would spend upwards of £8m on a player to timeshare a role with Daizen Maeda.