Celtic ‘show interest’ in Josh Mulligan but face two main hurdles to sign Hibs star

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Celtic are interested in Josh Mulligan, it is being reported.

Wilfried Nancy is preparing for his first transfer window in charge of the Hoops, and there is plenty of work to be done.

Striker, wing-back and centre-back are all likely on Celtic’s wishlist, but given the difficulty of the January window, it could be helpful to have someone who can play multiple positions.

That’s where Mulligan could really help. The 23-year-old can play as a midfielder and a full-back, and has plenty of experience in both positions.

But Celtic are reportedly facing two main hurdles to sign the Scotland youth international.

Celtic join the race to sign Josh Mulligan in January

Mulligan joined Hibs following the expiration of his contract at Dundee this summer. He was also heavily pursued by Rangers.

Since moving to Easter Road, he has earned comparisons to John McGinn for his strength and ability to drive with the ball.

READ MORE: Steven Pressley reveals the real reason he signed for Celtic in brutally honest reflection

According to the Daily Mail, Celtic have joined the race for Mulligan, but the Edinburgh side are ready to fend off January bids for their summer signing.

Since making a storming start to his time with the Hibees, interest has circled from all kinds of clubs for the midfielder who was handed his first Scotland call-up this year.

Among them are Premier League sides Nottingham Forest and Leeds United, as well as Lille and Wolfsburg on the continent.

So regardless of whether Hibs are ready to sell this winter, Celtic face a real battle to lure Mulligan, even if his club really do change their stance.

Celtic have had to use Yang Hyun-Jun and Sebastian Tounekti as wing-backs since Nancy’s arrival, with the Frenchman clearly unimpressed by the other existing options.

Mulligan could offer a solid option with more strength and defensive capability in that position, though he is primarily a midfield player.

Celtic target Josh Mulligan’s comparisons to John McGinn

It’s not only the media and fans comparing Mulligan to McGinn – Hibs man Martin Boyle joined the hype train after their recent win against Falkirk.

He said: “I thought Josh particularly was unbelievable today. He kind of just brought his game to a new level. He took the game by the scruff of the neck.

“He keeps driving at people. I think he got about four people booked.

“He’s another player with those John McGinn vibes you get about him. Head down, runs through people. So it’s great to see.”