Celtic are looking for firepower in their race to claim the Scottish Premiership and they could now be set to ramp up their efforts to sign a highly-rated international.
Celtic sweep aside Dundee United comfortably
Despite supporters expressing disappointment at the Hoops’ hierarchy failing to sign a striker before their clash against Dundee United, any frustration soon turned to elation after Martin O’Neill guided his side to a comprehensive victory on home soil.
Keeping their first clean sheet in nine matches, the Irishman’s switch to a back four and his decision to bring wingers back into play began to slowly heal some of the wounds left by Wilfried Nancy’s disastrous spell in charge.
Speaking after the match, O’Neill made it clear that he wants new arrivals in place to assist his efforts to win the title as the Bhoys look to get the better of Heart of Midlothian and Rangers in what is becoming a three-way fight for glory.
He said: “Today it was all about winning the game but the performance was terrific, I don’t think I should overlook that. We played really well, got confidence back again and it was just lovely to win. I’ve got no update (on transfers) at this minute. We need some people in to help the squad at the minute. I am never confident about anything until it’s actually over the line.”
Stefan Ortega is a long-term target to replace Kasper Schmeichel, though the goalkeeping position will likely not be addressed until the summer.
Hibernian midfielder Miguel Chaiwa is on Celtic’s radar and has also attracted interest from Fiorentina this window. Nevertheless, the Bhoys may actually raid his side for one of their alternative key players.
Celtic set sights on signing Kieron Bowie
According to Herald Sport, Celtic have signalled their interest in marksman Kieron Bowie to Hibernian, asking to be ‘kept informed over any possible transfer deals’ or approaches involving the Scotland international.
In light of recent speculation surrounding his future, Hibees boss David Gray responded by saying: “I think the speculation is going to be there in terms of people approaching the club. One thing that Kieron needs to do, and it’s the same as all the other players, is just keep doing what he’s doing.”
100% duels lost: Celtic flop proved why O’Neill has to sign Silas Andersen
This Celtic flop’s performance against Dundee United proves why Martin O’Neill must sign Silas Andersen this month.
Enjoying a fine campaign, Bowie has scored nine times and registered three assists in 28 appearances across all competitions and netted against Motherwell on Saturday to continue his stretch of form. Any transfer would break the record between Scottish clubs, which remains Scott Brown’s £4.4 million move from Hibernian to Celtic back in 2007.
Given he is homegrown and already acclimatised to the rough and tumble of the Scottish Premiership, the former Fulham man would be a popular addition at Parkhead, though it remains to be seen whether Celtic are willing to meet his £6.5 million valuation, especially when you consider that English clubs are also keeping an eye on his situation.