Celtic are on the verge of completing a deadline-busting loan deal for Crystal Palace utility man Jeffrey Schlupp.
The Hoops have left it late as they attempt to strengthen Brendan Rodgers’ Treble-chasing squad – with a left-back and striker top of the Parkhead club’s wishlist. Versatile Schlupp fits the bill as the Scottish champions seek to plug the gaping holes vacated by Alex Valle and Kyogo.
Celts had considered a summer swoop for the 32-year-old and Rodgers has now reignited his interest in the former Ghana international, with discussions at an advanced stage over a short-term deal until the end of the season. Record Sport understands Schlupp is keen on a move north of the border and is excited at the prospect of winning silverware and playing in the Champions League. And with Kieran Tierney not arriving from Arsenal until the summer, experienced Schlupp will provide Celtic with much-needed cover in the priority areas. Here’s everything you need to know about the star.
Who is Jeffrey Schlupp?
German-born Schlupp has spent his entire career down south after coming through the ranks at Leicester City. He’s racked up 280 appearances in the Premier League, scoring 22 times and supplying 15 assists. Crucially, he can be deployed as a left-sided defender, central midfielder, left winger and even a STRIKER. However, having spent most of his career playing at left-back and out wide, Schlupp will primarily be brought to provide cover and competition for Greg Taylor.
What has Schlupp achieved in his career?
Capped 20 times by Ghana, the veteran was part of the Leicester City team who shocked the world by being crowned Premier League champions in 2015/16. He was a vital clog in Claudio Ranieri’s winning machine and ended that fairytale season as the club’s Young Player of the Year – pipping Demarai Gray and Ben Chilwell to the personal gong.
With Celts setting their sights on a mouthwatering playoff with Bayern Munich, Schlupp also has Champions League experience, making three appearances in the group stages for the Foxes. Aside from a brief loan stint as a youngster at Brentford in 2011, the only other club Schlupp has represented is Crystal Palace. Sam Allardyce splashed £12million to bring the talented star to Selhurst Park in January 2017, where he has gone on to make an astonishing 247 appearances.
How has he fared this season?
Although he’s still a valuable member of the Eagles squad, lightning-quick Schlupp has found his minutes severely limited this term, with all 16 of his outings coming from the bench. Just weeks ago, boss Oliver Glasner played down the chances of the fans’ favourite leaving the club amid interest from Blackburn Rovers.
Speaking after his recent FA Cup cameo against Stockport County, he said: “I really appreciate Jeffery’s experience and he can play in different positions. Today, with Tyrick Mitchell being really ill, we wanted a left-footed wing-back to play crosses – he can play there. He can play in the 10. He can play in midfield. He is so experienced – he can play almost anywhere. But Schluppy is now 32 and his contract ends in the summer. If he wants to have a change with two or three years on a contract, he will come [and tell me]. No one has come and said they want to leave – that’s very positive.”
However, as he enters the final six months of his deal, Schlupp looks to have played his last game for the Eagles as he prepares to pack his bags for Glasgow.