Defence is key for Celtic as Bhoys linked with Simunic, Turner and Van Buyten - Sport - Evening Standard
       

Defence is key for Celtic as Bhoys linked with Simunic, Turner and Van Buyten

Celtic are being linked with central-defensive reinforcements in the shape of Hertha Berlin's Croatian international Josip Simunic and Hull City's Michael Turner.

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Moreover Belgian defender Daniel van Buyten is a transfer window target for Celtic, his agent has stated.

The Bayern Munich centre-back, who will turn 30 on February 7, has made just five starts in the Bundesliga this season.

Croatian star Josip Simunic (left) has been linked with a move to Celtic

Croatian star Josip Simunic (left) has been linked with a move to Celtic

Agent Christophe Henrotay told The Sun: "It is true that Celtic are very interested in Van Buyten."

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan could look to strengthen his defence if Bobo Balde moves on to Bolton or Sunderland, who are keen to take the Guinean.

Van Buyten, who at 6ft 5in is a commanding presence and strong in the air, has had previous spells at Marseille, Hamburg and, briefly, Manchester City, where he spent time on loan in 2004.

Hull City's former Brentford defender Michael Turner (left) is highly-rated

Henrotay said: "Gordon has been on the phone to ask me about Van Buyten.

"Daniel would like to stay with Bayern, but anything is possible because at the moment he is not playing regularly."

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