Ian Dowie believes Celtic should consider a move for Callum Wilson this summer. The former Premier League striker can still score goals, but Celtic should not be spending a valuable squad place on a 34-year-old forward nearing the end of his career.
While the veteran striker still knows where the goal is, that does not mean he is the right signing for Martin O’Neill’s side.
Dowie’s comments came as speculation linked Wilson with a move to Glasgow following West Ham’s relegation. The former striker believes Celtic would appeal to the 34-year-old.
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Ian Dowie is right on one thing about Celtic and Callum Wilson
There is no point pretending Wilson is finished. His record says otherwise.
The striker scored seven Premier League goals for West Ham last season and has amassed 148 goals during his senior career. Those are not the numbers of a player who has completely run out of road.
Dowie told the Hull Daily Mail, “I think Celtic would interest Callum Wilson. Hull would be an interesting one, and Celtic is a massive club. It wouldn’t surprise me.
“He did his job at West Ham in the time he played, and I think there’s still goals in him. I remember that goal that went over the line and then was disallowed, and everything else that happened to lead us to where we are.
“As a West Ham fan, it was painful. I think Wilson will get a good move though.”
That does not make Wilson the right signing for Celtic
The problem is that being able to score goals and being the right fit for Celtic are two completely different things.
Wilson turns 35 during the upcoming season. If Celtic are entering the market for a striker, they should be looking for someone who can contribute for years rather than months.
O’Neill needs players who can help the club now while also providing long-term value.
Wilson would be a short-term solution. Even if he arrived and scored goals, Celtic would quickly find themselves needing another replacement.
There are better options than Callum Wilson for Celtic to pursue
This is not a criticism of Wilson. His Premier League career deserves respect and Dowie is correct that he still has something to offer.
But Celtic should be aiming higher than a 34-year-old striker approaching the final stage of his career. The club’s next centre-forward signing should be someone capable of contributing for several seasons, not simply offering a short-term fix.
Wilson may get a good move this summer, just not one that should be to Parkhead.
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