The fee Celtic would have to pay Dundee for Luke McCowan if summer interest advances

Add as preferred source on Google

Dundee captain Luke McCowan has been monitored by Celtic this summer as his excellent run of form on Tayside continues into the new campaign.

The 26-year-old has registered three goals and four assists in his opening seven outings this term, dealing admirably with intense speculation that continues to surround his future.

Celtic have kept tabs on McCowan over the window, with just one year remaining on his contract at Dens Park. Hibernian have seen two proposals turfed out by Dundee for his signature, while Bolton Wanderers are also in the running to acquire the former Ayr United man.

Manager Tony Docherty has remained coy on talk regarding his skipper and has praised McCowan’s leadership quality and professionalism within the building.

Fresh information has now come to light regarding Dundee’s demands for their star man as interested suitors look to prize him away from the City of Discovery.

Dundee want seven-figure fee for Luke McCowan

According to The Daily Mail (print edition, page 62), Hibernian are expected to return with a third bid for McCowan worth £750,000. David Gray has made it a priority to land the 26-year-old this window.

Nevertheless, Dundee are keen to hold out for a fee in the region of £1 million despite the industrious midfielder being free to sign a pre-contract elsewhere in January.

It is yet unclear whether Dundee would accept their third offer, which may require Celtic to move swiftly if they do decide to firm up their initial interest.

Docherty may have a decision to make sooner rather than later, with the prospect of losing one of his most prominent operators for free in 2025 unlikely to enthuse anyone connected with the Dark Blues.

Celtic’s need for midfield reinforcements

Celtic already added Paulo Bernardo to their squad permanently this summer and could look to invest further in their engine room before the end of the transfer window.

Brendan Rodgers reportedly has Augsburg’s Arne Engels on his radar and is a big fan of his versatility. Meanwhile, Liverpool star Wataru Endo has emerged as a target at the more ambitious end of the scale.

McCowan may not be able to compete in stature with these players. However, given his availability for a bargain fee, he could be an intelligent pick-up that would help the Bhoys’ homegrown quota for European competitions.

Hopefully, supporters can see clarity one way or another on potential additions before too long; it is well overdue.