Journalist Ben Jacobs has revealed that Celtic have made an initial move to explore a possible deal for Callum Wilson as the January window continues.
Celtic remain active behind the scenes as they search for attacking reinforcements, with the need for experience in the forward area becoming clearer by the week. Injuries, inconsistency, and a lack of depth have placed extra pressure on the squad during a tight title race.
Wilson’s name has emerged as one of several experienced options being discussed as Celtic assess what is realistic in the current market. Any move, however, is far from straightforward and depends on developments away from Glasgow.
The situation centres on Wilson’s status at West Ham and whether his contract will be brought to an early end. That detail is key, as Celtic’s interest is shaped by financial limits and squad planning rather than urgency alone.
With the window moving on, Celtic are balancing patience with necessity. The club know that adding the right player matters more than moving quickly, especially when wages and long-term fit are involved.
Jacobs said: (talkSPORT), “I think Celtic have made an initial enquiry to the player’s side only.
“They’re trying to establish, first and foremost: is Wilson’s contract going to be terminated? Because Wilson as a free agent – still with a relatively high wage expectation – is one thing…
“But nobody wants to actually do a deal with West Ham unless he goes into free agency.
“And like Michail Antonio, if that proves to be the case, this isn’t something that has to be done imminently. Player and clubs can take their time.
“So West Ham and Wilson are still in talks to finalise an expected termination, but it’s not 100% done yet.
“And then, Celtic could be interested. Leicester City have also made an enquiry as well, and there remain two Saudi clubs – Al-Ettifaq, who used to be managed by Steven Gerrard, and Al-Shabab.”
This development comes as Kelechi Iheanacho returned to full training with the Celtic squad on Thursday morning at Lennoxtown. The striker had been working individually in recent weeks as he continued his recovery. His return slightly eases the immediate pressure on Celtic’s forward options, even as the club continue to explore possibilities in the market.
The picture that emerges is one of caution rather than hesitation. Celtic are gathering information first before deciding whether a move makes sense on sporting and financial grounds.
Wilson’s experience at Premier League level is clear, but so too are the questions around fitness, wages, and timing. Those factors will shape any next steps far more than speculation.
Competition from other clubs adds another layer to the situation. Interest from Leicester City and teams in Saudi Arabia suggests that Celtic would not be alone if Wilson does become available.
That reality reinforces why Celtic are not rushing. Waiting for clarity on contract termination allows the club to assess options without committing resources prematurely.
January deals often move late, especially when free agency is involved. Celtic’s approach appears aligned with that pattern rather than driven by panic.
For supporters, the update offers insight rather than certainty. It confirms that Celtic are looking at experienced forwards while remaining disciplined about how deals are structured.
As talks between West Ham and Wilson continue, Celtic’s role remains one of observation and readiness. If conditions change, interest could sharpen quickly.
Until then, this remains a situation to monitor rather than a move to expect immediately. Celtic’s focus stays on getting the right player under the right terms.
The coming days should clarify whether Wilson’s path leads to free agency. Only then will Celtic’s interest move from enquiry to decision.
