Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton has called for a substantial investment in the club’s squad ahead of the upcoming season, suggesting that a transfer budget of around £50 million is necessary to support manager Martin O’Neill’s planned rebuild.

Following last season’s Scottish Premiership title win, Celtic have already released approximately a dozen players from their enlarged roster. However, the club has yet to make significant incoming signings as they brace for important fixtures, including the league qualifier scheduled for two legs in the latter half of August. Sutton emphasized the critical nature of these matches, indicating that strengthening the squad is essential for maintaining the club’s competitiveness.

Sutton highlighted the impact of recent departures, noting the potential sales of key talents such as Arne Engels, Daizen Maeda, and Benjamin Nygren—players reportedly valued collectively at around £25 million. Their exits, he suggested, heighten the need for an aggressive recruitment campaign to replenish quality and depth.

“Martin O’Neill faced considerable challenges last season, achieving the title despite difficult circumstances,” Sutton said. “The club needs extensive changes in recruitment to meet the challenges ahead. To fend off challengers like Rangers under Derek McInnes and title rivals Hearts, Celtic may have to invest upwards of £50 million during this rebuilding phase.”

The former striker’s remarks underscore the pressure on Celtic to maintain dominance in Scottish football amid intensifying competition. How the club approaches the transfer window and allocates resources in the coming months will be closely watched by supporters and analysts alike.