Gremio winger Ferreira would be an “exciting” signing for Celtic, according to journalist Tim Vickery.

The Brazilian football expert does, however, warn the Hoops that recruiting the 25-year-old could still be a “gamble” due to both his fitness record and the fact that he has never played in Europe:

“He is exciting. Right-footed, he usually cuts in from the left, has evasive one-on-one skills and can score as well as create. Celtic, with their tradition of wing play, have reportedly shown an interest.”

“Injuries have been a problem, though, which would make him something of a gamble – but then again, that applies to any transfer, especially one taking a player across the Atlantic.”

While, as Vickery says, signing players from South America does come with risks attached to it, Celtic will be fully aware of the pitfalls. They don’t always have the luxury of buying players who are likely to be surefire hits, so they have to take their chances.

Ferreira’s injury problems are a concern

The fact that the winger has spent eighteen matches on the sidelines this year due to a hamstring problem does raise some alarm bells.

Over the past twelve months, Ferreira has actually been out of action for 228 days, having also suffered a muscular injury last year. It is not a great recent injury record and Celtic’s medical team will need to be thorough in their checks before approving any transfer.

Celtic may have to pay a significant fee to secure his services

Reports suggest that Gremio could demand as much as £6m for Ferreira, which isn’t exactly a small fee, even if we factor in that the Hoops do have a sizeable transfer budget currently.

When you take his injury record into account as well, fans may well wonder whether signing the Brazilian is worth it.