Celtic are desperate for a striker before the January window closes, with Callum Wilson, Kieron Bowie and Diabate linked. A confirmed signing could shorten Celtic’s odds to score first and win — punters may back Celtic to cover goal handicaps or wager on the new forward to score in his first three matches. Keep an eye on goal markets and first-goal bets if a deal is announced.
Celtic scramble for striker as January window hits midpoint
Martin O'Neill has been blunt: Celtic need attacking reinforcements now the transfer window is at its midpoint. With Johnny Kenny the only fit first-team striker available and Kelechi Iheanacho repeatedly hampered by injury, the boss says fresh faces are essential to avoid a crisis should further injuries hit during a congested schedule.
“We obviously need to do it, even just to give help to the boys at present at the minute,” O'Neill told reporters after the recent win. “If we pick up injuries to really key players here, we could be in serious trouble. We need some people in. And, honestly, we are working on it.”
Who’s on Celtic’s shortlist?
Callum Wilson — experienced England striker
Callum Wilson has been linked as a potential short-term gamble. The 33-year-old has struggled for consistent starts this season and is reportedly open to a move for regular football. An arrival would bring Premier League-proven finishing, but fitness and form at this stage of his career are questions to weigh up.
Kyogo Furuhashi — unlikely reunion
Former Celtic favourite Kyogo, now at Birmingham after a brief spell in France, is considered an unlikely return option. The striker has shown he can still deliver goals for his current club, making a switch back to Glasgow improbable for now.
Kieron Bowie — young Scottish option
Celtic have registered interest in Hibs frontman Kieron Bowie, who is valued at around £6m. At 23, Bowie offers youth, mobility and a pathway for development—an option that suits longer-term planning if Celtic want an affordable domestic striker.
Diabate — Allsvenskan top scorer type
Ivory Coast forward Diabate has impressed in Sweden and is touted as a lower-cost attacking target (valued near £3m). His goalscoring record in the Allsvenskan makes him an intriguing, budget-friendly alternative for immediate impact.
Giuseppe Ambrosino and Wessam Abou Ali — other movements
Giuseppe Ambrosino’s loan prospects have shifted, with a move to Venezia reported, closing off a potential route. Columbus Crew striker Wessam Abou Ali is also linked with a loan to Trabzonspor, reducing the likelihood of him arriving for Celtic this window.
Managerial urgency and squad risk
O'Neill’s timetable is tight: a run of midweek matches leaves little respite for squad rotation and recovery. The manager has made clear that reinforcements are not luxury signings but necessities to protect the team from injuries and fixture congestion.
Betting implications and what punters should watch
A confirmed striker signing will likely shorten Celtic’s odds in win markets and boost goalscorer and anytime scoring markets for the new arrival. If a proven finisher is signed, consider bets on Celtic to score first, on goal handicaps, or on the new striker to register a goal within his first three appearances. Conversely, signing an unproven overseas talent may have less immediate betting impact, so monitor confirmations and fitness updates before staking.
What to expect next
Expect increased activity in the remaining days of the window as Celtic push to complete a deal. Fans and punters should watch official club announcements for certainty — market reactions will be swift once a signing is confirmed.
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