Rangers stunned as Celtic target January transfer hijack

Celtic are reportedly interested in beating Rangers to the signing of Kilmarnock midfielder David Watson during the upcoming January transfer window.

The Scotland U21 captain is into the final year of his current contract at Rugby Park and he has been heavily tipped to leave the club for pastures new in 2026.

Watson is able to sign a pre-contract agreement for next summer in the New Year, although Celtic are interested in finalising a deal for the 20-year-old midfielder when the January transfer window opens.

That is according to The Herald, who claim that Celtic are eyeing a possible January swoop for Watson as they look to sign a new homegrown player to help meet UEFA squad requirements for European competitions.

Rangers have also been linked with the Scotland youth international in recent weeks, but Celtic have shortlisted him as a key transfer target ahead of the January window as they contemplate a potential bid.

Danny Rohl’s side are therefore set to face a major transfer battle for the 20-year-old’s signature.

Watson has already racked up a whopping 117 first-team appearances for Kilmarnock, having made his senior debut at just 16 years old, and he has scored three goals in 18 matches so far this season.

Celtic eye David Watson deal

If Watson completes a move to Celtic during the upcoming January transfer window, he would become the first Kilmarnock player to secure a transfer to Celtic Park since Greg Taylor in 2019.

The Glasgow giants spent €15.1m on new signings over the summer, however marquee arrival Sebastian Tounekti has already been tipped to depart in January, while €5.2m addition Michel-Ange Balikwisha has only scored one goal in 11 appearances for the club.

However, Celtic are expected to prioritise finding a new permanent manager before intensifying their pursuit of Watson, with the club currently searching for a new head coach following the resignation of Brendan Rodgers.

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