Brendan Rodgers reportedly wanted Wigan Athletic’s Will Grigg in 2016 and Celtic are allegedly keen on Nick Powell.
It may be no coincidence that just two days after Celtic failed to break down St Mirren, albeit with ten men, Brendan Rodgers side have been linked with an attacking midfielder who can score and create in equal measure.
The Sun (19 September, page 63) reports that Celtic are battling Brighton to sign Wigan Athletic talisman Nick Powell. The former Manchester United youngster scored 15 and set up eight more as the Latics won the League One title last season and he has managed four and three so far in the Championship, too.
The report adds that Celtic are preparing a lucrative contract offer to lure the £5 million-rated Powell to Parkhead.
But is he the only Wigan star on Celtic’s radar?
According to Herald Scotland, Brendan Rodgers had made Will Grigg one of his first transfer targets after taking over at Celtic in 2016. And, while the Northern Irish international may not be as red hot as his infamous chant suggests right now, three goals in five Championship games in 2018/19 represents a solid return.
He also hit 26 in all competitions last season, including a dramatic winner as Wigan knocked Manchester City out of the FA Cup.
After Moussa Dembele’s deadline-day move to Lyon, there is room in Celtic’s squad for another centre-forward. So, while enquiring about Powell, Rodgers should have another look at his Wigan teammate too.
Bringing Powell and Grigg on board could give Celtic the extra firepower they have been lacking in games against the likes of St Mirren and Hearts.
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