Callum Wilson is expected to become a free agent in the coming days after agreeing to terminate his contract with West Ham United, a development that has sparked renewed speculation over a potential move to Celtic.
However, former teammate James McPake has issued a note of caution to the Hoops, warning that while the striker’s quality is undeniable, his recent injury record and lack of consistent game time cannot be ignored.
The 33-year-old forward has found himself out of favour at the London Stadium and has not featured in West Ham’s last two matchday squads as discussions continue over the early end of his deal.
Reports suggest the agreement is likely to be formally concluded by the end of the week, clearing the way for Wilson to assess his next move as a free agent.
Celtic are actively searching for attacking reinforcements following Kyogo Furuhashi’s decision to reject a return to Parkhead, with Martin O’Neill making the addition of a proven striker one of his top priorities during the current transfer window. Wilson’s availability has therefore placed him firmly among the names being discussed, particularly given his experience at the highest level of the English game.
McPake, who played alongside Wilson early in his career, spoke warmly about the striker’s ability and mentality, describing him as a brave, quick and dynamic forward who showed immense promise even as a teenager.
He recalled Wilson training with Coventry City’s first team at just 17 or 18 years old before going on to enjoy successful spells at Bournemouth and Newcastle United, where his performances earned him England call-ups and goals on the international stage.
However, McPake stressed that any potential move would hinge entirely on Wilson’s fitness. While he believes the striker would strengthen Celtic’s starting XI rather than simply serve as a squad option if fully fit, he admitted that recurring injuries have significantly limited Wilson’s involvement in recent seasons. This, he suggested, is the major reason a player of Wilson’s calibre is even being linked with a move to Scottish football at this stage of his career.
Despite those concerns, Wilson has still managed to contribute four goals for West Ham this season, underlining that his instinct in front of goal remains intact. For Celtic, the decision now becomes a balancing act between securing a proven goalscorer with Premier League pedigree and accepting the risks associated with his injury history and reduced minutes.
As Celtic continue to evaluate their options midway through the transfer window, Wilson’s situation remains one to watch.
Should the striker prove his fitness and show a willingness to embrace a new challenge, he could yet emerge as a bold and potentially transformative signing for the Hoops — albeit one that comes with clear and calculated risks.
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