Former teammate James McPake has urged Celtic to proceed with caution over a potential move for Callum Wilson, pointing to the striker’s long injury record and limited recent involvement.
Wilson, who is currently surplus to requirements at West Ham, has been strongly linked with a switch to Celtic Park. The former England international is expected to become a free agent shortly, with his contract at the London Stadium set to be terminated as the Hammers battle relegation.
Now 33, Wilson enjoyed a highly successful career in England after emerging at Coventry City, where McPake was also part of the club. Celtic are actively searching for a new number nine after Kyogo Furuhashi rejected a return to Glasgow last week, and strengthening in attack remains a top priority for Martin O’Neill.
O’Neill has already confirmed that he has knocked back several proposed targets during the January window, but McPake believes Wilson could still be an attractive option if fitness issues can be overcome. Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, he said that a fully fit Wilson would be out of Celtic’s reach, but his recent injury struggles have changed the picture.
McPake explained that, despite the risks, Wilson would be a significant addition if he could stay fit, offering more than just squad depth. He recalled Wilson training with Coventry’s first team as a teenager, highlighting his bravery, pace and natural goal threat, traits that later took him to Bournemouth, Newcastle and the England national side.
However, McPake also stressed that excitement around Wilson’s name must be balanced against the reality of his recent history. A lack of regular football and a series of serious injuries have limited his impact in recent seasons, and those concerns would not disappear with a move north of the border.
Wilson has been left out of West Ham’s last two matchday squads while discussions continue over ending his contract. He has scored four goals for the club this season, but TalkSPORT report that his deal is expected to be terminated by the end of the week, potentially opening the door to a new chapter in his career.