Celtic’s midfield problem can be fixed by this €6.5m Ajax star

Celtic failed to act properly during the summer transfer window, leaving significant gaps in Brendan Rodgers’ squad. One of these could be plugged by taking advantage of the situation of unsettled Ajax midfielder Kian Fitz-Jim.

The 22-year-old Fitz-Jim seemed destined to leave depart the Amsterdam club on a loan deal in the summer. Ajax are packed with options in the area of the field that Fitz-Jim operates and so playing opportunities seemed slim.

Although the Dutchman has made six appearances this season, a switch to Celtic in January would prove a deal that would suit all parties, according to data analytics firm SciSports.

Fitz-Jim was a favourite of former head coach Francesco Farioli, who used him 44 times last season, but since the Italian’s departure to Porto, his opportunities to impress have been restricted under John Heitinga. He was notably left marooned on the bench for the Champions League losses against Inter Milan and Marseille.

Celtic a strong fit for Fitz-Jim

Celtic would be a perfect opportunity for Fitz-Jim, who has an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €6.5 million to kick start his career, according to SciSports.

The analytics experts give the Glasgow giants a Club Fit rating of 87, which is based upon a variety of factors such as potential development and playing time as well as formation fit and style. This is an exceptionally high score, suggesting he is a perfect solution for a Celtic side still seeking more drive to their attacking play.

Fitz-Jim vs Eredivisie midfielders: Overall performance (2024/25)

What qualities would he give to Celtic?

Fitz-Jim was a leading central midfielder in the Eredivisie last season, performing especially well in terms of his attacking qualities, such as dribbling and offensive positioning. He also excelled in his transition forcing, suggesting that he would offer Celtic plenty of energy with his intelligent pressing.

The Eredivisie market is already one that the Parkehead giants explored in the summer as they targeted Go Ahead Eagles’ Jakob Breum before the deal broke down due to their failure to qualify for the Champions League.

With the pressure on the Celtic board to go out and spend in January as they sit second behind Hearts in the Scottish Premiership table, Fitz-Jim looks like an exceptionally smart potential signing.