Five strikers linked to Celtic still have questions to answer over Martin O’Neill’s clear transfer plea

Celtic’s manager has emphasized the urgent need to bring in reinforcements, particularly in the attacking department. A transfer strategy meeting took place recently between the coaching staff and club officials to address the team’s depleted forward options. Currently, only one recognized striker is available for selection, with key players sidelined by injuries.

Several potential targets have been identified across European leagues. Jonas Wind from Wolfsburg remains a realistic prospect, available at a reduced fee with his contract expiring soon, though he is temporarily dealing with injury issues. The Danish forward has demonstrated proven goalscoring ability at Copenhagen and elsewhere in top competitions.

Joel Piroe’s availability appears blocked by ownership complications. Despite his impressive Championship record, the Leeds United striker cannot be pursued because the club shares common ownership with a domestic rival, making cooperation unlikely. Meanwhile, Croatian prospect Franko Kovacevic appears to have slipped away to Hungarian football, with advanced negotiations reported with another club.

Serbian forward Andrej Ilic presents a mixed picture. Union Berlin made his loan move permanent but his current form has disappointed, leaving him goalless in the Bundesliga. His £9 million valuation likely exceeds January budget constraints. Other previously considered options have become unavailable, including Callum Wilson after a recent performance resurgence and Evan Ferguson following his recent improvements in Italy.

Ivory Coast striker David Datro Fofana has returned to consideration after his successful loan in Turkey. Championship competition exists for his signature, and negotiations would be required. Young prospect Ibrahim Diabate, who impressed in Swedish football, appears close to joining Leicester instead, potentially removing him from contention.

Tawanda Maswanhise of Motherwell represents a domestic option, though at a premium price reflecting his impressive seasonal output. The manager recently attended matches to observe potential targets, with fellow player Stephen Welsh potentially available as a trading component to facilitate negotiations with his former club.