After dropping points in back to back league games, Celtic trail Rangers by two points. The defeat against Livingston was unexpected, and there must be some doubts creeping in the Celtic camp. Recently reports from West London Sport had emerged that Celtic are interested in signing Hearts of Midlothian’s striker Uche Ikpeazu.
The targetman is currently down with an injury, but he is expected to be back after the international break. Ikpeazu is contracted to stay with the Jambos until 2022 as he signed a new contract in April this year. Reports earlier had emerged that he might cost somewhere around the £1m mark.
McNamara on Celtic’s link with Ikpeazu
Former Celtic defender and Scotland international Jackie McNamara recently suggested that there isn’t much truth in the latest rumours. Speaking to Football Insider, he said, ”I was quite surprised with that, I think it is probably just paper talk. I don’t think (there’s anything in that). I’d be surprised if that was real, it might just be his agent. He’s done well for Hearts, he’s strong, but there’s a big difference.”
It remains to be seen whether Celtic will really show any interest in him once the winter transfer window opens. Ikpeazu scored eight goals in 26 appearances in all competitions last season.
Why should Celtic be on the lookout for a striker?
The Hoops have a terrific striker in Odsonne Edouard. The Frenchman is probably one of the first names on the teamsheets for Lennon, but beyond him, the manager has his task cut out. Leigh Griffiths hasn’t been the same with his personal and injury issues.
He is expected to be back after the international break from an injury setback, but he looked rusty in some of the appearances this season. It remains to be seen whether Griffiths will be able to get back to his best. As for Vakoun Issouf Bayo, he is still a raw talent and is unproven at this level. Therefore we think that Lennon should be on the lookout for a striker in January.
Will Ikpeazu be a good option?
McNamara thinks that he might not be able to deliver for Celtic, but we believe that as a backup option, Ikpeazu can be a decent bet. He hasn’t been a prolific goalscorer for Hearts, but with better players around him, the forward can undoubtedly return better numbers. The Celtic target will always be a handful to the defenders in the attacking third and his hold up play is also impressive. Ikpeazu can very much become a second choice option at Parkhead.
