Report: Celtic closing in on a deal for Kyle Joseph despite links to Arsenal, Spurs and Leicester

By John McGinley

March 5, 2021

Celtic are ‘closing in on a deal’ for Wigan Athletic striker Kyle Joseph, The Scottish Daily Mail reports (05/03 print edition, page 86).

The Bhoys have been linked with a move for Joseph since last July and The Mail believes that Celtic tried to sign the player during the recent January transfer window.

With his contract expiring at the end of the season, it’s said by journalist Craig Hope that Celtic are now closing in on a deal that would see him arrive at the club this summer.

Joseph has been linked with a number of clubs over the past 12 months.

Last July he was linked with a move to Brendan Rodgers’ Leicester [The Sun], while this year brought reports of interest from Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Rangers [The Mirror 27 Feb, 12 Jan].

Why are Celtic showing interest in Kyle Joseph?

Joseph, still just 19, first showed signs of potential in last season’s FA Youth Cup, scoring an impressive six goals in four matches before the young Wigan side were knocked out by Manchester United’s U18s.

This season he’s made a breakthrough into the senior side, scoring five goals and assisting once in 14 league matches. [Transfermarkt]

A move to Scotland may appeal to him on the international front. Although born in London, Joseph is part of the SFA youth set-up and has represented Scotland at U18 and U19 level.

Celtic will be needing some fresh ideas in attack this summer with Odsonne Edouard likely leaving the club and question marks surrounding Leigh Griffiths’ future.

Celtic target Kyle Joseph in action for Wigan / (Photo by Dave Howarth – CameraSport via Getty Images)

With just 16 senior career appearances to his name, Joseph is unlikely to be one that comes in to make an immediate impact, but his potential is clear and signing him for cross-border compensation looks like a good move.

After also signing up Sheffield Wednesday signing up Liam Shaw, it’s clear the club are eager to sign up young British-based talents.

In other news, Celtic FC Foundation have announced three new charity partners.