Luke McCowan was a standout for Dundee during the 2023/24 season so the fact clubs are interested in him this summer is no surprise.
The attacking midfielder netted ten goals and assisted five more last term, helping the promoted side earn a creditable top-six position in the Scottish Premiership.
He’s started this season in fine form too, already scoring two goals and notching three assists – including an equaliser against Dundee United in an entertaining derby on Sunday.
The fact some of the interest comes from Celtic may be more of a surprise. Now 26, with a playing career at Ayr United and Dens Park, he doesn’t have the usual profile that the Bhoys pursue.
It was reported last month that the champions were ‘monitoring’ his situation, something reiterated by Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph this week after bids from Hibernian and Bolton were rejected.
Tony Docherty on Luke McCowan
For Dundee boss Tony Docherty, there’s nothing concrete to comment on quite yet and he’s comfortable that the attacking midfielder is as focused as ever at Dundee.
He said this week [Football Scotland]: “It’s speculation, but that’s because he’s a good player. I thought he grabbed the game for us on Sunday. I thought he went on to be the best performer on the pitch and when you do that of course he will attract attention.
“People say this, that and the other thing. For me, it is pure speculation – until I get told there is anything happened Luke is my captain, a driving force around the place. He’s got a level head. He shows real maturity and people can see that in his interviews. He shows a real level of maturity. He’s not a daft boy, he knows how to conduct himself.
“Luke became a big part of our leadership group last season and he thrives on that responsibility. He’s one of those players who puffs his chest out with a bit of responsibility and shows leadership. You can see that developing in him. That’s why he’s such an important player at Dundee. And, listen, he loves it here. He loves it. So until I know otherwise, he’s my player, he’s my wee buddy and he’ll keep playing.”
A viable Celtic squad option at the right price
Given he has now proven himself as a strong performer in the top flight – with eye-catching football ability in his boots – I’m not wholly against a move for McCowan at the right price.
With just a year left on his contract, there could be a potential bargain here for the champions, using McCowan as a squad or rotation option.
He by no means improves our starting eleven and some may baulk at the suggestion of a transfer as a result, but I can understand why Brendan Rodgers is at least keeping an eye on his situation.
With a glowing report from Docherty on the player’s attitude and character, he may well be a good fit for this ambitious and hard-working Bhoys squad.
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