There wasn’t much sense of loss among Celtic fans last night as news broke that Nir Bitton is a transfer target for Macabi Tel Aviv.
After eight years in Scotland being part of the most successful period of domestic domination ever there are obvious attractions in a return to Israel even though the player and his family appear settled and enjoying life in Glasgow.
Bitton’s Celtic career can be split in half with the first few years seeing him emerge as a real talent in midfield with his passing ability catching the eye but over the last few seasons he has evolved into a last resort central defender.
Injuries have become a growing issued with just 110 SPFL starts since signing from Ashdod early in the 2013/14 season.
Bitton was a regular after Brendan Rodgers took over in 2016 but the emergence of Callum McGregor and Stuart Armstrong followed by the arrival of Olivier Ntcham greatly reduced his appearances.
With his contract entering its last few months Bitton agreed a new deal in December 2019 that would keep him at the club until June 2023 but with interest from Macabi Tel Aviv there could be a move this summer.
EXCLUSIVE: Celtic ace Nir Bitton could leave in summer as Israeli champions step up pursuit of defender ?https://t.co/SxO5L0oexz pic.twitter.com/mgDw3HpQ1g
— Scottish Sun Sport (@scotsunsport) February 8, 2021
?? | Nir Bitton
Israeli champions Maccabi Tel-Aviv are reportedly keen on taking Nir Bitton back to his homeland following an eight year absence.
Bitton currently has two years remaining on his current deal at Celtic Park but could be tempted to return to Israel. pic.twitter.com/SLk39ZDx1E
— Everything Celtic (@aboutceltic) February 8, 2021
Bye. A midfielder who can’t get close to a start in his regular position pushed into a role where he’s not physically strong enough for & positionally weak. Another who’s been at the club too long without a big enough contribution.
— Scott Fulton (@MrCrowleyoto) February 9, 2021
First class ticket out the door, Rodgers had him gone, he got injured and Lennon fired a new deal at him. At the club too long can’t command a place in midfield and is def not a centre back. An easy choice to move on
— AB8™ (@AB8_) February 9, 2021
Bitton has did a decent job over the years when needed in a few different positions but far too injury prone. Shows how poor the clubs recruitment has been that we have needed to reply on him Centre Back. Doesn’t deserve the abuse he has been getting.
— M (@Sparky1986) February 9, 2021
Arguably our best player on the pitch?
— A D A M (@adthelad57) February 8, 2021
How on Earth has he still got 2 years left ?. This guy will be here longer than Lawell. The man is indestructible ?
— John Joe Lang (@jjlang22) February 9, 2021
Keep him please. Such a reliable player
— Joe ?? (@CFC_J1967) February 8, 2021
Not every player needs to be a starting 11. He’s a good utility player, decent back up at domestic level, seems to be content with his standing in the team. I’d let him decide but I woukd@be happy to extend his contract
— Stephen Craig (@Crag_1975) February 9, 2021
People say he’s been a good signing and servant he has tried but simply not good enough in any position
— Jamesgogs (@jamesgogs5) February 9, 2021