Celtic are again being linked with Tyrese Campbell, but this is not a move that should be accepted without question. The real issue is whether he is good enough, and if he is, why Celtic makes more sense than Rangers.
Celtic and Rangers have both tracked Campbell for years, and that long-standing interest has now resurfaced. This time, the interest carries more weight because of where both squads currently stand.
Campbell is 26 and approaching a key point in his career. His contract expires in July 2027, and he could be available for a reduced fee.
The question is not whether he is available, but whether he improves Celtic in any meaningful way.
Just? Maswanhise? Mulligan? Someone else?
Celtic need clarity in attack, not another gamble
Celtic are already dealing with uncertainty in their forward line, with loan signings and no confirmed long-term solution. That makes any incoming striker a key decision rather than a depth option.
The Scottish Sun says Celtic and Rangers are tracking Tyrese Campbell again as his contract situation develops.
Sheffield United previously blocked a move due to his importance to the first team, highlighting how much Chris Wilder trusts him at Championship level.
His return this season stands at six goals and two assists across 34 matches. That is steady involvement, but it does not point to a striker who will carry a title-winning attack.
Campbell’s stats for Sheffield United this season show 112 touches in the opposition box and 44 shots. His expected goals sits at 5.71 and aligns closely with his output, which highlights consistency but not the clinical finisher Celtic need.
That profile fits a rotation role, not a leading one. Celtic have been in this position before with their recent history in recruiting strikers, and similar discussions have already surrounded previous interest in Campbell over recent years.
Celtic role exists, Rangers role does not
Celtic have tracked Campbell for six years, and that raises questions about why a move has not materialised before. This summer, there is space in the squad, and the Bhoys need a striker who can be trusted to lead the line next season.
Across his career, he has scored 97 goals in 318 appearances, including 47 in the Championship. That is a consistent return, but not one that suggests a step up as a Celtic starting striker.
He offers flexibility across the front line and can operate in different attacking roles. Campbell has been deployed as a main striker, a wide forward, and in supporting positions across the front line.
Rangers have also tracked him, but their recent investment in attack changes the context. Their need is not as clear, and that makes the fit less obvious.
Celtic’s situation is different because the squad needs a rebuild. That creates a pathway for a player like Campbell, but only in a supporting role.
Celtic do not need another project striker leading the line. If they move for Campbell, it has to be with a clear understanding of what he is, and what he is not.
And right now, he does not look like the player who can lead a Celtic attack during what is set to be one of the biggest squad rebuilds in years.
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