Celtic's quiet summer transfer window isn't down to a lack of ambition, but rather the club's inability to keep pace financially with England's Championship clubs, according to chief executive Michael Nicholson.
Speaking to BBC News, Nicholson admitted the Scottish champions are finding it increasingly difficult to compete for targets, both in terms of transfer fees and wages, with second-tier English sides now able to offer packages that outstrip what Celtic can provide. He also pointed to the complexities of dealing with agents as another hurdle in getting deals over the line.
The comments come amid growing frustration among Celtic supporters over the club's limited business so far this summer, with manager Brendan Rodgers previously voicing concern over the pace of recruitment. Nicholson's remarks suggest the issue runs deeper than boardroom reluctance, framing it instead as a structural challenge posed by England's financial muscle reaching well beyond the Premier League and into the Championship.