Celtic's summer recruitment plans are taking shape, and Hibernian’s 21-year-old midfielder Miguel Chaiwa has emerged as a prime target. However, securing his signature will be far from straightforward, with Serie A’s Genoa, Ligue 1’s Toulouse, and Belgian giants Club Brugge all registering strong interest, according to reports from journalist Rudy Galetti. The Zambian international has caught the eye with his combative style and technical ability in the Scottish Premiership, and his potential availability has sparked a multi-club chase that reflects his growing reputation.
For Celtic, the need for midfield reinforcement is acute. With question marks over the long-term futures of several squad members and the physical demands of competing on domestic and European fronts, adding a versatile, high-energy midfielder like Chaiwa could be a strategic move. Standing 6ft 1in, he offers a blend of physical presence and composure on the ball that could add a new dimension to Brendan Rodgers’ engine room. The competition, though, is fierce; Genoa view him as a potential understudy in their defensively robust system, while Toulouse and Club Brugge offer pathways to regular first-team football in top European leagues. A bidding war could ensue, testing Celtic’s resolve and financial muscle.
Across Glasgow, Rangers are also navigating a period of transition. Midfielder Jose Cifuentes is set to return to Ibrox after MLS side Toronto FC declined the option to make his loan move permanent. The Ecuadorian struggled to find consistent form during his initial spell in Scotland, and his time in North America yielded mixed reviews. Now, under a new or soon-to-be-appointed manager, Rangers must decide whether to reintegrate him into the first team, seek another loan, or facilitate a permanent departure. His contractual situation and the club’s need to trim the wage bill add layers of complexity.
In a related development, former Scotland striker Paul Dickov has suggested that Everton and national team right-back Nathan Patterson would benefit from a return to Rangers this summer. The 22-year-old has found game time limited at Goodison Park amid injuries and fierce competition, and a move back to his boyhood club could reignite his career just as the 2026 World Cup qualifying cycle intensifies for Scotland. Patterson’s attacking thrust and defensive potential remain intriguing, but he needs regular minutes—something Rangers could offer if they decide to cash in on current options or re-shape their backline.
Scotland international Scott McKenna, another defender linked with Celtic in the past, provided a timely reminder of his resilience by starting in Dinamo Zagreb’s Croatian Cup final victory over Rijeka. McKenna shook off an injury scare to take his place in the heart of defence, helping his side lift the domestic trophy. The former Aberdeen man has enjoyed a solid campaign in Croatia after leaving Nottingham Forest, and his performances continue to place him firmly in the thoughts of national team coach Steve Clarke ahead of upcoming fixtures. A summer move back to the UK is not out of the question, especially if Premiership clubs see value in his left-footed defensive qualities.
Meanwhile, on-loan Marseille defender Derek Cornelius has played his final game for Rangers. The Canadian international has been allowed to leave the club early to join Canada’s pre-World Cup training camp in Charlotte, North Carolina. While not explicitly stated, the decision signals that Rangers do not intend to pursue a permanent deal or extend his stay. Cornelius’s loan spell had its highlights but ultimately failed to cement a regular starting spot. His early departure also underscores the growing impact of the expanded 2026 World Cup, with nations eager to prepare well in advance.
In other World Cup-related news, Dundee United defender Dario Naamo has been declared fit for this summer’s tournament should he accept a call-up from Iraq. The 24-year-old, eligible through his heritage, would join the Lions of Mesopotamia as they aim to make a mark on the global stage. Naamo’s versatility and pace have been assets for United in the Premiership, and his possible involvement adds an intriguing subplot to the Tannadice club’s off-season. It also highlights the increasingly cosmopolitan nature of the Scottish top flight and its expanding global footprint.
Aberdeen manager Stephen Robinson has cautioned that solving the Dons’ woes will require more than one transfer window. The Pittodrie side endured a frustrating season, plagued by inconsistency and a lack of cutting edge. Robinson’s frank assessment suggests a long-term rebuild is on the cards, with the summer window representing just the initial phase. Balancing the need for immediate improvement with sustainable squad development will be the key challenge. Fans may need to temper expectations, as the club looks to methodically address weaknesses in defence and attack.
In a note from the continent, Bayer Leverkusen have become the latest German club linked with a move for Sheffield Wednesday manager Danny Röhl. The 35-year-old has impressed since taking over at Hillsborough, steering the Owls clear of relegation danger in the Championship. While the report lacks concrete detail, it underscores Röhl’s rising profile in European coaching circles. Any approach would be a blow for Wednesday, who view him as integral to their long-term plans, but the allure of a return to the Bundesliga—where he previously worked under Hansi Flick at Bayern Munich—could prove tempting.
Collectively, these snippets paint a picture of a Scottish football landscape in motion. From Celtic’s pursuit of a rising star to Rangers’ loan returnees and departures, plus the ripple effects of World Cup preparations, the close season is shaping up to be a pivotal one. Clubs must navigate financial constraints, player ambitions, and the relentless pressure to deliver success. As the transfer window inches open, every move will be scrutinised for its potential to tilt the balance of power in the Premiership.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.