Celtic’s Returning Loanees: Who Stays, Who Goes, and What’s Next?
Some of these returning players are promising prospects, while others are nearing decision points in their careers. Now, Rodgers and his coaching team must determine who can contribute to the first-team setup and who is likely to move on as part of a broader squad reshaping ahead of next season.
One of the most familiar faces returning is Stephen Welsh. The 25-year-old defender has clocked up 68 appearances for Celtic but has struggled to secure a regular starting role. His loan at Belgian side Mechelen has been fruitful, with 17 appearances and a strong finish to the season. Welsh has spoken about improving his technical skills and physicality, aiming to impress Rodgers during pre-season. Yet, with Celtic’s depth in defense and his contract running until 2027, it seems unlikely he’ll command a central role.
Australian forward Marco Tilio also faces uncertainty. After joining Celtic in 2023, Tilio struggled to settle and returned to Melbourne City on loan. Injuries disrupted his progress, but he found form in the latter half of the A-League season, scoring five goals and providing five assists in 15 games. Tilio’s deal runs until 2028, leaving him with options, either push for a place in Rodgers’ plans or seek another loan or transfer.
Gustaf Lagerbielke enjoyed a productive spell with FC Twente in the Dutch Eredivisie, making 32 appearances and standing out with his defensive stats and aerial threat. However, Twente lacks the financial muscle to meet Celtic’s valuation, and with his contract extending to 2028, the club will want a fair fee if he departs. Lagerbielke’s form has attracted attention, suggesting other suitors may emerge.
Luis Palma, brought in during Rodgers’ first transfer window, has shown flashes of brilliance but hasn’t consistently delivered. His loan to Olympiacos brought success, including a league and cup double and a standout performance in the Greek Cup semi-final. While Olympiacos chose not to activate their option to buy, a long-term injury to Jota could open a window for Palma to rejoin Celtic’s squad unless new signings are made.
Kwon Hyeok-kyu’s loan to Hibernian added valuable experience, but he remains down the midfield pecking order at Celtic. The South Korean midfielder has shown glimpses of his potential but faces stiff competition in a crowded position. With 29 Premiership appearances under his belt, he’ll hope to use this foundation to stake his claim.
Adam Montgomery, a versatile full-back, has yet to break through into the first team despite being part of the squad since 2021. His recent loan at Queen’s Park helped him regain fitness, and he’ll be evaluated during pre-season, though his long absence from competitive action makes a significant breakthrough seem unlikely.
The club’s feeder arrangement with Admira Wacker in Austria has benefited Ben Summers and Matthew Anderson, who have gained valuable experience in a competitive senior environment. Summers, a combative midfielder, and Anderson, a promising left-back, will look to use their loan spells as a platform for breaking into the first team or earning moves elsewhere.
In goal, Josh Clarke and Tobi Oluwayemi have developed during loans to Ayr United and Dunfermline, respectively. However, with Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo occupying the top two spots and Ross Doohan likely coming in as a third-choice keeper, opportunities appear limited. Another loan move may be in the cards for both young goalkeepers.
Lenny Agbaire is one of the more intriguing prospects, having impressed during his loan at Ayr United. His physical presence and potential have earned him consideration for a role in pre-season, though he still has much to prove if he’s to make a lasting impact at Celtic.
This summer, the club’s challenge is clear: streamline the squad, make decisive calls on fringe players, and create space for new arrivals. Rodgers will need to balance potential with pragmatism to ensure the team is well-prepared for both domestic success and the demands of European competition.
