Celtic fans’ sweat starting to drip as Hotline goes into full panic mode while O’Riley millions burn

Barcelona kid Alex Valle has checked in on loan at Celtic but with just over two days left of the transfer window, Hoops fans are getting ever edgy over the lack of permanent signings.

The Matt O’Riley shaped hole in midfield has yet to be filled and with his £26million fee sitting in the Parkhead coffers – soon to be bumped up by more Champions League megabucks – supporters reckon it’s time to get spending. Offers are in for Augsburg midfielder Arne Engels, Los Angeles playmaker Mateusz Bogus and Sheffield United defender Auston Trusty. But so far there’s been no deal reached on any of the trio.

And David Wilson, Glasgow, said: “Welcome to Celtic Alex Valle. I just hope you’re the first of a late flurry of signings because we’re currently weaker as a squad than last season. A left back is welcome. But it’s midfielders and another centre half we need most. No more loan signings either. It’s time to put that O’Riley fee to good use.”

Denis Bruce, Bishopbriggs, claimed: “As the door for transfers closes, it will be a sad commentary upon the negotiating skills of those at Parkhead if the team is left short in the areas it needs to beef up to make any headway in the Champions League.”

Meanwhile, with Mikey Johnston closing in on an exit, Stephen Mulhern, Dumbarton, said: “I’ll be disappointed if Celtic let Johnston leave for £2.5m to Sheffield United and offer double for Auston Trusty who could only make the bench for the Blades on Tuesday night. It’s a paltry fee for Johnston who made such an impact on loan last season. Celtic should play hardball and insist on a straight swap.”

John Davidson, Kirkintilloch, said: “I see from a phone-in last night that the natives in the east end of Glasgow are restless once more.