Cork City goal machine Sean Maguire was released by West Ham in 2015 but they could challenge Celtic to bring him back.
Celtic’s scouts could not have picked a better time to watch Sean Maguire in action. According to the Scottish Sun, representatives from the Scottish champions were in attendance as the 23-year-old netted his tenth goal in 13 appearances to help Cork City to a 2-1 win against Bray Wanderers this weekend.
Maguire, who top scored in the League of Ireland with 29 goals last season, appears certain to follow in the footsteps of Shane Long, Kevin Doyle and co and earn a move to larger league after proving himself in his homeland.
This would be Maguire’s second stab at the big time, however. The Republic of Ireland youth international swapped Waterford for West Ham in 2013 but, after failing to make an appearance, was released just two years later.
Now, however, the Scottish Sun report that the Hammers could surprisingly challenge Celtic for his signature in the summer.
And perhaps they should be reminded of quotes from Waterford chairman John O’Sullivan, made just after the then-teenager had moved to Upton Park.
“I’m a great fan of Lionel Messi at Barcelona. When I look at Seanie, he really reminds me of him,” he told BBC Sport.
“Seanie has the same kind of balance, burst of speed and he’s powerful on the ball. He has everything going for him.”
However, after his spell with West Ham turned sour, you could forgive Maguire for choosing Celtic instead. The likes of Paddy McCourt, Niall McGinn and Michael Duffy have all earned moves to Parkhead after impressing in Ireland in recent seasons so Maguire would be in good company.
Furthermore, with Northern Irish manager Brendan Rodgers renowned for honing young talents, the prolific striker could fulfil his frightening potential in Scotland.
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