Jahmai Simpson-Pusey to Celtic could prove major coup after what Pep Guardiola said about Man City prodigy
Celtic are said to be lining up a loan move for Manchester City defender Jahmai Simpson-Pusey.
And the teenage star has already been tipped as the future of the Citizens' defence by Pep Guardiola.
Highly-rated Simpson-Pusey, 19, burst onto the scene at the Etihad last season and immediately caught the eye.
The England youth international made six first-team appearances - including two Champions League outings against Sporting Lisbon and Feyenoord.
Simpson-Pusey was also crowned EPL 2 Player of the Year after captaining Man City's reserves to title glory, seeing off competition from Hoops new Bhoy Callum Osmand at Fulham.
The youngster actually faced Celtic during City's pre-season tour of the USA in 2024, as Brendan Rodgers' side edged out 4-3 winners.
He was then called upon by Guardiola throughout the campaign as the dethroned Premier League champions suffered an injury crisis.
And the breakthrough talent seriously impressed his manager, with Guardiola hailing him as one for the future after his display in a 2-1 defeat at Brighton.
All-conquering Guardiola said: 'The guy played really good, the young lad again, with this composure and duels and everything was good. It's not easy for him.
'Normally the young lads, they must come in with support from the team, with Rodri in front of them, right? With the best Kyle [Walker], and defenders, and now we support him.
'Now he's playing in a position that is difficult for him, but he performed unbelievably. We have a central defender to help us for the future, for the next years. I'm really pleased. Always there is good news when the situation goes bad, and this is one of them.'
Guardiola revealed in December that he was tempted to throw in the rising star in the heat of a Manchester derby.
He added: 'For example against (Manchester) United I thought to put Jahmai (Simpson-Pusey); he's played really good, but that pressure in that situation, it's a little bit…'
Having offloaded Gustaf Lagerbielke and Maik Nawrocki, Celtic are in the market for more defensive cover.
At least one winger, midfielder and main striker are also on Rodgers' wishlist as the champions kick off their title defence this weekend.
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