Alexandro Bernabei is expected to leave Celtic for a loan transfer to Brazil in the coming days.

Bernabei, who joined the Scottish champions for £3.5 million from Lanus 18 months ago, has struggled to get consistent playing time. The 23-year-old has only made three league starts this season, all of which came earlier this year when first-choice left-back Greg Taylor was injured.

Celtic made Bernabei open for move in January, but nothing happened. However, with the Brazilian transfer market still open, sources from the South American country say he will join SC International on loan for the duration of the season. The Argentinian is scheduled to arrive in Porto Alegre soon, with official confirmation following shortly thereafter.

According to the article, SC International will have the option of making the move permanent at the end of the campaign, although no price is mentioned. It means Bernabei’s time at Parkhead could end just two years after it started.

During his 18-month tenure with the Hoops, the left-back made only 21 appearances while winning the Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup under Ange Postecoglou in 2022/2023. He scored only one goal against Ross County in April of last year.

Celtic will be worryingly thin at left-back after Bernabei’s departure, with Taylor the only natural alternative. The 26-year-old has been practically constant at left-back under Rodgers, but another injury might pose a huge concern in what appears to be one of the more competitive title chases in recent years.

Right-backs Anthony Ralston and Alistair Johnston can switch to the left, while Liam Scales can provide a left-footed option if moved out of central defense. Celtic are presently two points behind league leaders Rangers, having drew at home to Kilmarnock last month and losing 2-0 at Hearts on Sunday.