Celtic striker Johnny Kenny brought a ten game goal drought for club and country to an end with his finish against Auchinleck Talbot in the Scottish Cup on Sunday.
The Ireland international has now netted six times in 21 appearances across all competitions this season. However, only four of those goals have come in 15 Scottish Premiership outings, highlighting ongoing concerns over his effectiveness as the main striker. Despite his cup goal, the need for reinforcements up front remains clear, with Kenny having underperformed his expected goals total in the league and failing to fully convince in the number nine role.
One forward previously linked with a move to Parkhead was Celje hitman Franko Kovacevic, who has enjoyed a prolific campaign with 25 goals in all competitions. That potential deal, however, now appears to be off the table.
Reports suggest Ferencvaros, managed by former Celtic striker Robbie Keane, have agreed a €3 million deal to sign the Croatian forward. Kovacevic is said to have travelled to Budapest to complete his medical ahead of a permanent move from the Slovenian side.
The 26 year old has been in outstanding form this season, including an impressive return in European competition, and some Celtic supporters may be disappointed to miss out. Even so, the January window still has time to run and there may be an alternative option who represents an even stronger upgrade on Kenny.
Celtic are believed to have already sounded out Hibernian over the availability of Kieron Bowie, with the Edinburgh club reportedly valuing the striker at around £6.5 million. The 23 year old has emerged as one of the most reliable finishers in the Premiership and could arrive with far fewer adaptation concerns.
Bowie’s appeal lies in his proven record at domestic level. He is among the league’s leading scorers this season and has delivered his goals with impressive efficiency, converting fewer chances into a higher return than several Celtic forwards. That clinical edge is something the Hoops have lacked at times with Kenny leading the line.
While Kovacevic’s numbers in Slovenia are eye catching, there is no guarantee his form would have translated to Scottish football. Bowie, by contrast, has already shown he can thrive in the Premiership and could make an immediate impact.
At 23, he is also younger than the Croatian striker and would offer greater long term value, both on the pitch and as a potential future asset. His age, experience in the league and sharp finishing make him a compelling target.
With the window still open, attention now turns to the Celtic board to see whether they are willing to invest in a proven Premiership goalscorer who could give Martin O’Neill the cutting edge his squad needs.