Como, Udinese, Southampton and Ipswich Town all interested in Celtic-linked star with one ‘preparing bid’

Brendan Rodgers made a number of questionable signings when he returned to Celtic in 2023.

The Northern Irishman recruited the likes of Maik Nawrocki, Gustaf Lagerbielke, Marco Tilio, Kwon Hyeok-kyu and Luis Palma that summer.

But two have now left Celtic, while the other three have zero future prospects at the club, despite being contracted until 2028.

Young defender Liam Bonetig was also signed by Rodgers early in his second tenure, joining from Western Sydney Wanderers.

But he can be classed as yet another 2023 signing failure.

Liam Bonetig signs for Melbourne City

That’s because Melbourne City have confirmed the permanent signing of Bonetig from Celtic on a three-year contract.

Bonetig did not make a first-team appearance for the Hoops and played only with Celtic B, playing 24 games in total.

Last season, Bonetig was not a regular even for Celtic B. The 19-year-old was mostly on the bench or not even in the matchday squad for the majority of Lowland League clashes.

It’s understandable why Bonetig has now moved to Melbourne City, the team that Marco Tilio played with on loan last season from Celtic.

Bonetig on leaving Celtic to return to Australia

Speaking to the A-League’s official website, Bonetig admitted that he learned plenty from playing with Celtic B for almost the last two years.

He said: “It’s a really exciting moment for me to return to Australia and to be able to join the reigning champions makes it even more special.

“I’ve learned a lot over in Scotland over the past two years and I’m hungry to keep improving. There’s no better environment to do that in Australia than at City.

“I can’t wait to get started and do everything I can to help the team have another big season and win more trophies for the City fans.”