Carl Starfelt's Celtic departure confirmed as defender signs for La Liga side

Carl Starfelt’s move to Celta Vigo has been confirmed as the the defender moves to Spain after two years at Celtic.

The treble-winning defender played his last game for the Hoops on Saturday when he was brought on as a sub during the 4-2 win over Ross County in Glasgow.

Brendan Rodgers confirmed after the game that he was in talks over a move from the defending Premiership champions.

And on Thursday he signed a four-year-deal at the La Liga side in a move that will also see him move closer to girlfriend Jacynta who now plays for Sporting Lisbon in Portugal following her summer departure from Celtic Women.

That is believed to have played a big part in the 28-year-old’s decision to make the move to Vigo.

Celtic confirmed the move, saying: “Carl Starfelt has today joined RC Celta on a permanent transfer.

“Everyone at Celtic thanks Carl for his contribution to the Club over the last two seasons, and wishes him good luck in his future career.”

The defender has won two Premiership titles, two League Cups and a Scottish Cup since he was signed from Rubin Kazan in 2021.

The Parkhead club, who bolstered their defence with the signing of Maik Nawrocki in the summer, are also interested in bringing in Starfelt’s compatriot Gustaf Lagerbeikle from Elfsborg as a direct replacement.