According to the Daily Record, Stoke City are plotting a move for Motherwell talent David Turnbull – but Celtic and Newcastle United are still in the mix.
It’s claimed that Motherwell are now are of Stoke’s interest in signing Turnbull, with boss Michael O’Neill – who has a strong knowledge of the Scottish market – driving the pursuit.
Celtic boss Neil Lennon is still keen to sign Turnbull, but would allegedly rather wait and see how Turnbull fares when Scottish football returns before making another move.
Celtic had agreed a £3million deal to sign Turnbull last summer, but a medical issue not only saw the move collapse, but ruled Turnbull out for most of the season.
Intriguingly, the report adds that Steve Bruce is a ‘huge admirer’ of Turnbull, and wants to bring him to Newcastle – but confusion over their takeover means he may not be able to push for a deal yet.
That leaves Stoke in pole position ahead of Celtic for Newcastle for Turnbull, in what would be some coup for the Championship club.
Turnbull, 20, smashed 16 goals and seven assists for Motherwell in the 2018-19 season, showing his quality as a midfielder who can make a real impact in the final third.
A move to Celtic could have been huge for him, and if Lennon waits too long, the Bhoys could miss out on a player they thought would be their future.
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