Tawanda Maswanhise was in demand during the January window, with many Celtic supporters urging the club to make a move. He has since broken his silence on transfer links and outlined his future ambitions.

He’s been Motherwell’s star man this campaign, playing a pivotal role in keeping them in fourth place so far.

The 23-year-old has driven Motherwell’s push into fourth, carrying the goal threat in a team that plays fast, expansive football.

He sits top of the Premiership scoring charts with 13. Across 30 domestic appearances, he has 20 goal contributions. That is not a flash in the pan. That is sustained output.

His performances at AFCON only added to the noise. Maswanhise was recognised as one of the tournament’s most promising talents, and suddenly the speculation gathered pace.

Celtic never made an official approach, but interest was confirmed.

That raised eyebrows given the lack of depth in forward areas at the time. Maswanhise can operate off either flank or through the middle. He fits the profile, quick, direct, capable of finishing.

Instead, it was Anderlecht who made a late move on Deadline Day. Motherwell stood firm and kept their man.

Now Maswanhise has addressed the attention.

He said (SunSport):

“I think I have dealt with it quite well. My dad always taught me never to get too low with the failures and never get too high with the successes.

“Before I came to Motherwell, I always said I wanted to showcase my talent and really see if I can crack on.

“When there are more eyes on you, then you have to show something. I like that feeling.”

He sounds like a player who thrives on scrutiny rather than shrinking from it.

He also made his longer-term ambition clear.

“For me, myself and my career, I do want to play Champions League football.

“These big European competitions, that’s where I really want to strive to and make my name. That comes with time. It comes with experience.”

That line will not go unnoticed.

While Celtic currently compete in the Europa League, they will have the chance at qualifying for Europe’s top club competition should they win the race to this season’s title.

Maswanhise has already proven he can produce in Scotland. He has done it consistently, not in bursts.

If that form continues, Motherwell will not be fending off one bid next time. They will be dealing with several.

Celtic passed in January. The question is whether that decision looks sensible come the summer.