3 wingers Celtic should try to sign in the January transfer window

Martin Boyle

Hibernian’s Scottish-Australian winger Martin Boyle has long been a known target of Neil Lennon, with the two working together in Lennon’s stint as manager of Hibs from 2016-2019 when he returned to Celtic after Brendan Rodgers’ departure.

The 27-year-old has had some injury concerns but has done well for the club otherwise, with five goals in 17 league appearances for the third-placed Hibs, tied with Edouard and Ajeti’s season goal tallies. Hoops fans are likely well familiar with Boyle’s ability in the SPFL, having been a thorn in their club’s side most recently in Celtic’s November 2-2 draw with Hibs.

During last summer’s rumored transfer pursuit, he was apparently valued between £1.5 to 3 million, and it would be no shock to see Lennon pay the price for a player he is so keen of. With COVID-19 placing a financial strain on most clubs this season, that price could even potentially be lowered in an effort to grab some quick cash for Hibs during the transfer window.

The biggest roadblock is Boyle’s newly inked contract extension signed with the club in August, technically keeping him at the club until the summer of 2023. Surely if the price is right and the need is there, Lennon and company could pry the winger away from Jack Ross’s side.

If Lennon and company do choose Boyle and are able to pull off the signing, he could prove quite the steal for Celtic in terms of squad depth and ability, as well as his veteran familiarity within the SPFL. However, at 27 years-old and with his injury history, he may not prove to be as long-term a signing as the club would likely pursue.