Celtic confirm signing of Swedish defender Gustaf Lagerbielke

Celtic have confirmed the signing of Gustaf Lagerbielke on a five-year-deal.

The Swedish defender joins the Scottish champions from Allsvenskan side Elfsborg following the departure of Carl Starfelt.

The 23-year-old has one cap for Sweden after making his international debut against Iceland in January.

He will add further defensive reinforcements for manager Brendan Rodgers, who has already brought in Polish defender Maik Nawrocki from Legia Warsaw for £4.3m.

Rodgers also outlined his desire for Stephen Welsh to stay at the club, after the defender made an important contribution against Aberdeen.

In a statement released by Celtic on Wednesday, following a teaser message from former defender Mikael Lustig, Brendan Rodgers said: “We are really pleased to finalise the deal for Gustaf to join the club.

“He is an exciting, talented young player who has great attributes and someone who I think is ready for the challenges that Celtic will bring.

“I know he is really hungry to achieve success with us. We think he will bring even more quality to our squad and we really look forward to working with him.”

Lagerbielke, who will wear the number four jersey at Parkhead, said: “It feels really good, and I’m really excited and proud to be here.

“The first thing you think of when you hear the name ‘Celtic’ is obviously the fans, this stadium and the atmosphere the fans create here.

“And also, all the good players who have played here and who are playing here now, so I’m really excited to play with them and hopefully win a lot of games and titles.”