In recent times, it has been rare for Celtic to go out and sign players from other Scottish clubs, unless for youth talent or backup goalkeepers. The only two outfield options that come to mind immediately are David Turnbull and Luke McCowan. The former left the club a while back while the latter arrived from Dundee FC last summer and has been a solid squad option for Brendan Rodgers to have around.
This summer, they were linked with another player currently plying his trade in Scottish football. But unfortunately, this time around, the Hoops have missed out.
The player we are talking about is none other than Josh Mulligan. Just like McCowan, he was on the books at Dundee FC. But not anymore.
Reports down south had linked Celtic with an interest in Mulligan as well as several other Championship clubs. He has decided to stay in Scotland but won't be heading to Glasgow.
Scottish rivals announce signing of Celtic transfer target
Hibernian have officially announced the signing of Mulligan on their website. The 22-year-old has joined Hibs on a four-year deal.
One has to wonder whether Celtic ended up making a real push to sign Mulligan before he joined Hibernian or whether the interest was just media speculation. If they did, it is certainly interesting that he has decided to join a different team in Scotland. Of course, it is very possible that he wanted to play regularly at this point in his career and that probably was not going to happen at Parkhead.
Celtic do not have a great record when it comes to developing youngsters in recent times. And despite all their success on the pitch, their transfers have proven to be pretty hit and miss as well. Hopefully, the club improve in both those aspects moving forward.