Reports: Celtic table opening bid for highly-rated Motherwell and Scotland youngster

By Lewis Laird

June 28, 2022

Celtic are reportedly interested in signing talented Motherwell youngster Bailey Rice.

The 15-year-old is believed to be one of the best young talents in the country, with clubs from across the UK watching his progress closely.

According to reports from the Daily Record, the Hoops have already tabled an opening bid in an attempt to sign the highly-rated teenager.

Glasgow rivals Rangers are one of the other sides interested in Rice and have reportedly joined Celtic in tabling a bid for the midfielder. Whilst an unnamed English Premier League side have also declared their interest.

Rice is a regular feature for Scotland at under-17s level and recently played his part in the side which reached the European Championship in Israel.

He has shown his versatility for the Tartan Army, having featured at the centre of a back four and in midfield.

The young Motherwell talent doesn’t turn 16 years old until later this year, in October. So, Rice faces a wait before he is eligible to sign his first professional contract.

However, the Steelmen could look to strike a deal now, with future adds-on built-in, rather than losing him for compensation later this year.

In recent seasons, the Fir Park academy has been producing some great talents, and in 2020, Celtic picked up one of the best to come out of Motherwell in recent years, signing David Turnbull.

If the Bhoys were to strike a deal, Rice would be expected to join up with the Celtic B side, who are taking part in their 2nd season in the Lowland League.

But, similarly to signing his first professional terms, the Scotland internationalist would have to wait until he turns 16.

There certainly seems to be a lot of interest in acquiring Rice. So, the Hoops face a battle to sign one of the best talents in Scotland at this moment in time.

In other news, Ange Postecoglou insists unique pre-season scenario will be ‘invaluable’ for Celtic squad.