Celtic have to spend big on transfers after that crowing note to the Stock Exchange – Chris Sutton

Celtic's message to the London Stock Exchange said the next financial figures will exceed expectations.

Their work before this transfer window closes has to do the same. It’s not a case of will they spend handsomely before it shuts. After that Stock Exchange note, they simply have to. Let’s get it right, there isn’t a fan in the world who wouldn’t be delighted to see such a healthy projection of financials.

Celtic have cash in the bank and there’s buckets more to come shortly with the Champions League. But it’s an age-old issue. When supporters know there’s money in the coffers, they want some of it spent. This is a two-way street. If the fans are going to fork out to hand it over, they want to see the club pay some of it out to improve the team. I’m almost tired of talking about transfers in this column. With every passing week the fans are getting more and more relentless as regards the dealings.

Celtic simply have to produce some rabbits from hats. The manager is craving quality and the chance is there to go and add it for him. Trust me, the players want it, too. I know what it’s like. You get such a boost when quality arrives into the unit.

It lifts everyone and makes you feel you are getting a helping hand. Boys like Callum McGregor, who has now ended his Scotland career, have earned that. If ever there was a time to push the boat out a little, this is it surely. Listen, Celtic are run brilliantly. You don’t get that sort of money in the bank just through fans’ investment in gate receipts and merchandise.

Club chiefs know how to run their model and they do it with poise and professionalism. They try to get the best deals and there's nothing wrong with that approach. Put it this way, if the figures that were coming