Celtic have announced the signing of IF Elfsborg player Gustaf Lagerbielke on a five-year deal.

The 23-year-old central defender, who was capped by the Swedish national team for the first time in January, spoke of his delight at joining the Scottish champions.

When speaking to the club's website, he 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.”

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With defensive stalwart Cameron Carter-Vickers taken off at half-time as a precaution, it remains to be seen whether or not Lagerbielke will be given a baptism of fire at Rugby Park. Stephen Welsh was the USA international's replacement last Sunday and put in an admirable performance alongside new recruit Maik Nawrocki in the heart of the Celtic defence at Pittodrie.

Regardless of who Brendan Rodgers goes for, the Celtic manager is pleased with the signing of his latest transfer target. He 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.”

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Lagerbielke made 16 appearances in all competitions for Elfsborg this season, scoring two goals. With the Swedish team midway through their Allsvenskan season, the defender will be hoping that his regular game-time this campaign will set him in good stead in terms of breaking into the Celtic first-team. 

He has chosen the number four shirt at Celtic, previously worn at the club by fellow countryman Carl Starfelt, who left the club last week to join La Liga side Celta Vigo.

Join Ryan McGinlay and Alan Morrison, as they discuss this and more in the video below.