Celtic’s reported interest in Josh Mulligan always looked likely to attract competition. Fresh reports linking West Ham with the Hibernian midfielder suggest that challenge may already be arriving.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, West Ham have made an initial enquiry about Mulligan, although no bid has been submitted at this stage as the Premier League club assess their summer plans.
Jacobs also noted that the midfielder has only recently returned from an ankle injury but is attracting attention from south of the border.
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West Ham interest adds to Celtic’s Josh Mulligan challenge
The update comes after Celtic’s interest in Mulligan emerged, with concerns already raised over the obstacles that could stand in the way of a deal.
One of those hurdles was always the possibility of rival clubs entering the race. Interest from a Premier League side naturally changes the landscape, even if West Ham have not progressed beyond an enquiry.
Celtic’s interest emerged before Premier League clubs became publicly linked with the midfielder, which makes the latest development particularly notable.
For Celtic, the timing is notable. Mulligan’s stock appears to be rising and Hibs are unlikely to be short of admirers if clubs in England continue to monitor his progress.
Paul Slane’s view may now carry even more weight
Before West Ham’s interest surfaced, Paul Slane once urged Brendan Rodgers to sign Mulligan, arguing that the player had the qualities to strengthen the Celtic squad.
The former Celt’s comments look increasingly relevant as more clubs are linked with the Hibs man. It is one thing attracting interest from fellow Scottish Premiership sides or Championship clubs. Premier League attention is another indicator that Mulligan is building a strong reputation.
There is still no suggestion that Celtic are preparing an imminent move, and West Ham have yet to submit a bid.
However, if Celtic’s recruitment team genuinely view Mulligan as a player worth pursuing, developments like this rarely make a transfer easier.
The window remains open for Celtic, but fresh Premier League interest is exactly the type of competition supporters would have hoped to avoid.
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