Martin O’Neill has played down suggestions that Celtic are pursuing a move for Callum Wilson, saying he believes the West Ham forward is set to continue his career elsewhere.
The 33-year-old has been one of several strikers linked with a switch to Parkhead as Celtic search for extra firepower. Reports had suggested the club had sounded out Wilson’s representatives to gauge his interest in a move to Scotland and understand the timing of his exit from West Ham.
However, according to The Telegraph, Wilson is expected to travel to Saudi Arabia next week to hold talks over a potential move to the Pro League, with his contract in London set to be terminated.
When asked about the reported interest ahead of Celtic’s Scottish Cup tie against Auchinleck Talbot, O’Neill kept his cards close to his chest. He admitted the links were news to him and stressed that, while the club are actively looking for goalscorers, he was under the impression Wilson was heading in a different direction.
Although he distanced Celtic from a move for the former England international, O’Neill confirmed progress is being made in the transfer market. He suggested the club are edging closer to their first signing since his return, while also expressing frustration at constant transfer speculation during media duties.
O’Neill underlined the need to strengthen the squad, particularly with important fixtures on the horizon. While he ruled out any immediate additions before the cup clash, he hinted that new arrivals could be finalised at some point next week as Celtic look to bolster their options for the run-in.