Celtic sign defender Carl Starfelt as Ajer departs for Brentford

Celtic has signed Swede Carl Starfelt while confirming Norwegian defender Kristoffer Ajer’s departure has been completed.

The Parkhead side announced it had reached an agreement with Rubin Kazan for Starfelt’s transfer on Wednesday.

The defender will sign a four-year deal having been with the Russian side since 2019 having previously played with IFK Goteborg.

Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou said: “I am really pleased agreement has been reached and we are really looking forward to Carl joining up with the squad. Carl is an experienced player and someone with the attributes to be a real success at Celtic.

“He is a strong, athletic and committed defender and will add quality to our squad. I am sure he will be a player our supporters will welcome warmly and someone who will be really important for us going forward.”

Norwegian Ajer joined Celtic as a teenager, having been a much-thought of midfielder in his home country.

STV News reported his departure was expected to be finalised within 24 hours on Tuesday. He is joining the English Premier League newcomers Brentford ahead of the 2021/22 season.

A club statement said: “Known for celebrating goal-stopping tackles as much as strikers celebrate goals, he scored seven goals in 177 games in green and white, and played an important part in winning each of the 12 consecutive trophies lifted in four seasons, including scoring the final spot-kick that secured the unprecedented Quadruple Treble.

“Everyone at Celtic Football Club wish Kristoffer every success in his future career down south and thank him for his role in the club’s success in recent years.”