Celtic sign Uruguay international Marcelo Saracchi on season-long loan

Celtic have completed the signing of Uruguay defender Marcelo Saracchi on loan from Boca Juniors.

The 27-year-old will spend the season with Brendan Rodgers’ side and provide competition and cover for Kieran Tierney on the left side of the defence.

Rodgers welcomed the signing of a player he believes can provide a real attacking threat in addition to his defensive duties and will strengthen his squad ahead of the challenges to come.

“I’m really pleased we have been able to bring Marcelo to the club,” the Celtic manager said.

“He is someone who has great ability, a very solid defender but also, as an attacking full back, he can make a real impact for us going forward.

“Having played in Argentina’s Primera Division for a number of years, Marcelo has a very good level of experience within a strong football environment, so I believe he will be an important, quality addition to our squad.”

Saracchi, who played against Celtic in 2018 when he was with RB Leipzig, said he’s looking forward to playing at Celtic Park again.

“I’m delighted to be here,” he said. “I’ve met all the boys and my overriding emotion is just of excitement and I can’t wait to get started.

“I’ve known for a little while that I was coming so there’s a lot of excitement there and I can’t wait to get started, get out and get playing, and I’m looking forward to it.

“I remember the fans at Celtic Park. They were amazing and the stadium had a great atmosphere.

“The pressure of playing for a big club is something that I thrive on. It doesn’t hinder me, it’s the opposite. I look forward to it and I think it pushes me to be better.”