It has been another hectic few days around Celtic as the club’s managerial search continues to dominate headlines.
Reports have suggested Dermot Desmond recently held talks with Robbie Keane regarding the vacant manager’s position, although others still maintain Martin O’Neill remains the preferred option internally after guiding the Hoops to the domestic double.
But amid all the focus on the dugout, Celtic have also missed out on one previously-linked transfer target.
Bolton Wanderers have officially confirmed the signing of David Watson from Kilmarnock following their promotion to the Championship through the play-offs.
The Scotland Under-21 midfielder has signed a three-year contract with the option of a fourth after Bolton agreed an undisclosed compensation package for the 21-year-old, whose Killie contract expires later this month.
The move will formally complete once the summer transfer window opens on June 15.
📝 Wanderers are delighted to announce the signing of attacking midfielder David Watson!
David has agreed to join Wanderers from Kilmarnock and will complete a move once the summer transfer window opens on 15th June.
Great to have you on board, David! 🤝#bwfc
— Bolton Wanderers (P) (@OfficialBWFC) June 1, 2026
Watson had been linked with Celtic earlier in the season, particularly before Christmas when reports suggested the Hoops were monitoring the midfielder closely and potentially considering a pre-contract move.
Because his deal was running down, there had been suggestions Celtic could attempt to bring him in relatively cheaply despite Killie still being entitled to compensation.
Instead, Bolton have moved decisively.
Watson arrives after already building significant experience at a young age.
Having joined Kilmarnock at just seven years old, he progressed through the academy before making his first-team debut at 16.
He leaves Rugby Park with 140 senior appearances and 13 goals to his name.
Johnny Kenny at Bolton had a successful six months at teh club, although the Irish striker’s long-term future remains uncertain after his successful loan spell was interrupted by injury near the end of the campaign.
Whether Celtic ever seriously intended to push ahead for Watson remains unclear, but if there was genuine interest, they have now been beaten to the deal.
