Scott Burns believes Celtic should be bold in the transfer market and at least explore the possibility of a move for Midtjylland striker Franculino Dju, even if the deal ultimately proves too expensive. He also wonders whether Shaun Maloney might be tempted to return to Parkhead to pursue a domestic option, naming Kieron Bowie or Martin Boyle as possible targets.
Andy Newport feels Bowie is developing well but doubts Celtic’s board would meet Hibs’ reported £6.5m valuation. He suggests that if the club genuinely want to inject urgency into the title race, they should consider testing Hearts by making a move for their influential captain at Tynecastle.
Fraser Wilson describes Callum Wilson as a headline-grabbing option but questions whether Celtic could afford such a deal. He points to David Fofana as a more realistic signing based on his statistics and feels Bowie should be allowed to continue his progression at Hibs.
Asked about Rangers’ January transfer activity and whether it sends a clear message, Burns says the business looks impressive on paper and notes that the Ibrox board have backed Danny Rohl. He still feels Rangers lack a cutting edge up front, but believes the additions should help push them forward.
Newport agrees that Rangers’ work in the window shows ambition, but thinks they remain short of two key players. He highlights centre-back depth as an issue and insists a dependable goalscorer is the biggest missing piece in Rohl’s squad.
Wilson is equally positive, stating that while the new signings are yet to fully show their impact, their pedigree is clear. He singles out Andreas Skov Olsen as a proven international winger and believes Rangers have strengthened several priority areas while Celtic hesitate.
Looking ahead to the Scottish Cup weekend, Burns expects many to tip Ayr against Dundee United and Raith Rovers to challenge holders Aberdeen, but predicts the Premiership sides will come through, anticipating a round without major surprises.
Newport feels Aberdeen will be relieved to be playing Raith Rovers at home rather than away, but still sees vulnerability in a Dons side without a permanent manager. He believes Dougie Imrie’s team will sense an opportunity.
Wilson points to Tannadice as a potential danger zone, noting Dundee United’s inconsistency and Ayr’s ability to punish mistakes. He also warns Aberdeen that poor finishing could leave them exposed to an upset.
Turning to Aberdeen’s managerial search, Burns says Jens Berthel Askou is a popular name but doubts he would leave Motherwell at this stage. He suggests Gary Rowett, recently departed from Oxford United, as a candidate worth considering.
Newport is surprised Robbie Neilson has not already been approached, describing him as a proven Premiership manager with experience at clubs of a similar stature to Aberdeen.
Wilson sticks with his long-standing choice of Stephen Robinson, praising the work he has done at St Mirren. He argues Robinson understands the league, delivers results, and would offer far more than a safe option, calling him a genuine winner.