If a recent report from the Times (as cited by the Daily Record) is believed to be true, Celtic are back in the race for Hibernian winger Martin Boyle. They hold a long-term interest in the Australia international and might finally make the move to bolster themselves in the attacking third.
However, the Hoops are not alone in the race. An unnamed club from Abu Dhabi are keeping close tabs on his situation at Easter Road, whereas a rumour surfaced last month linking him with Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Faisaly. Hibs would demand a seven-figure fee for the in-demand attacker and an amount of around £3m might be enough to seal the deal before the winter window is slammed shut.
The 28-year-old Aussie ace progressed through the academy ranks of Montrose and went on to make 88 appearances for them in the lower leagues of the Scottish pyramid. He then had a stint at Dundee before plying his trade at Hibernian seven years ago. So far he has fired in 63 times and set up 53 more in 264 appearances for the Edinburgh giants.
Why Celtic Must Secure The Services Of Martin Boyle
Boyle enjoyed a standout 2020-21 season with 15 goals and 12 assists in 48 outings but is expected to surpass the numbers by the culmination of the current campaign having notched 14 goals and laid on 5 times already in 27 games altogether. He scored a hat-trick against Rangers in the League Cup semifinal, and also registered an assist in their 2-1 defeat to Celtic during last month’s Hampden Park final (stats via Transfermarket).
The Bhoys had initial jitters under Ange Postecoglou who inherited a depleted squad back in summer. An overhaul was anticipated, but the ex-Socceroos chief handled the crisis exquisitely despite key exits as well as an array of new arrivals at Parkhead. Apart from conquering the Cup glory, they have also kept pace with league leaders Rangers at the top of the Premiership standings. Having said that, a little push is required to reclaim the Scottish crown and the inclusion of Postecoglou’s fellow countryman would add quality and introduce flexibility across the frontline.
Celtic have the likes of James Forrest and Liel Abada in their ranks to feature from the right-hand flank. But the persistent injury problems have restricted Forrest’s minutes in recent months, also the inconsistency of young Abada remains a concern. Moreover, they are still in Europe to take part in the knockouts of the inaugural Conference League and the upcoming fixture congestion might prove tricky unless they inject enough firepower high up the pitch.
