Celtic are looking to strengthen their squad in January, with a mobile central midfielder emerging as the club’s leading transfer priority.

CeltsAreHere understands that the Hoops are focusing on adding quality in specific areas rather than making wholesale changes when the transfer window opens.

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Centre-back cover has also been mentioned as a possibility, although there is less certainty around that position.

The clearest indication concerns central midfield.

Celtic are understood to be looking for a more mobile player who can operate defensively while also covering ground in the middle of the park.

The number six or eight profile would offer another option alongside Callum McGregor and potentially address some of the problems Celtic have experienced when opponents break through midfield.

Budget is not understood to be a major obstacle in Celtic’s search for a midfielder, with a deal in the region of £8 million, similar to the fee paid for Mika Baur, considered a realistic possibility.

Another area Celtic are examining is the right wing.

The club are understood to be interested in adding a younger player in that position, giving the squad another attacking option.

James Forrest remains an experienced presence, while Martin O’Neill has used different combinations in the wide areas during a demanding run of fixtures.

Celtic’s dramatic Europa League victory over Beşiktaş also demonstrated how much the options available from the bench can influence a match.

Camilo Durán and Callum Osmand transformed Thursday’s contest after being introduced in the second half, combining to help secure a 3-2 win.

Adding another wide player would increase competition without necessarily requiring a major overhaul of the attacking squad.

A defensive addition has also been mentioned, with potential centre-back cover among the options being discussed.

However, this is not understood to be as clear a priority as midfield or the right wing.

The position could depend on how the squad looks closer to January.

The club’s defensive depth has already been tested during the season, making it an area worth monitoring as the window approaches.

The expectation is that Celtic could look to bring in two or three quality additions rather than undertake widespread changes.

That remains an indication of the approach being considered, not confirmation that three deals will be completed.

No specific targets, bids or negotiations have been confirmed.

Central midfield appears to be the clearest priority, with the search focused on finding a player capable of adding mobility and defensive presence.

The right-wing position is another area to watch, while any move for a centre-back remains less concrete.