Stephen Welsh makes move from Celtic to KV Mechelen on loan

Celtic defender Stephen Welsh has moved to Belgian side KV Mechelen on loan until the end of the season.

The centre-back has been out of the first team picture, making only two appearances for the champions, and will now look to earn regular game time in the Belgian Pro League.

“I want to fight my way into the team as soon as possible,” the 24-year-old told Mechelen’s official website.

“They have shown for some time that they would like to have me there.

“I am delighted to be able to sign for this great club. In the coming months I want to fight together with the team and the supporters and achieve great results. I am looking forward to it!”

“My contract here runs until the summer, so I will do everything I can to be successful with the team. My full focus now is on being able to play for KV as soon as possible.”

Stephen Welsh has joined KV Mechelen on loan until the end of the season.

Best of luck, Stephen! 💚#CelticFC🍀
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) January 9, 2025

“Finally he is with us,” Mechelen sporting director Tim Matthys. “We had already made a number of attempts (this summer) to bring Stephen here.

“What did not work then, has now been completed.

“Stephen is the reinforcement we needed in the short term. He will give our defensive compartment a solid injection of quality. His arrival is important to sharpen the competition and give our coach more options at the back.”