As per one of the latest reports by Bristol Post, Celtic are keeping close tabs on Wigan Athletic’s star, Nick Powell, and are keen to lure him to the Celtic Park in the summer. Apart from the Scottish giants, Brighton & Hove Albion are also perceived to have put Powell on their radar and thus, it goes without saying that his progress hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Powell developed in the youth ranks of Crewe Alexandra and was then promoted to their senior. He showed a lot of glimpses of being a dazzling youngster with lots of potential, which tempted Manchester United to make him sign on the dotted line in the summer of 2012. However, he couldn’t cement his place in the senior side of the Red Devils.
He was sent out on loan to Wigan Athletic, Leicester City and Hull City and was eventually signed permanently by the Latics during the summer transfer window of 2016. It has been a staggering season for the Englishman in League One as he has banged 12 goals in 25 league appearances and thus, has emerged as one of the hottest properties in the game.
Powell has certainly played an instrumental role in taking the Tics at the top of the league table and his club is certainly eyeing for promotion to the Championship. Paul Cook might be reluctant to let his leave DW Stadium anytime soon but Celtic should try to test their resolve by placing a substantial bid in the summer, something that they are expected to do.
There were bids from Chris Hughton’s camp last month to lure Powell to the Amex Stadium but Wigan Athletic managed to remain in hold over their prized asset. The 23-year-old has showcased immense work-ethic and as an attacking midfielder, he has not only created plenty of goal-scoring opportunities but has also found the back of the net on a regular basis.
His technique has developed considerably and he has learned a lot after leaving the ranks of Manchester United. Celtic could be a decent destination for him as the Bhoys should be able to offer Champions League football and under the tutelage of Brendan Rodgers, he would have the opportunity of brushing himself further.
The Celts would definitely make some additions in the summer and someone like Powell should fit their bills perfectly. He would be able to inject a breath of freshness in Celtic’s ranks and enhance the quality of their attacking prowess to a substantial extent.
Statistics Credits: WhoScored.com