Both halves of the Old Firm are reportedly keeping close tabs on Motherwell talisman Tawanda Maswanhise, though any move could require a significant financial outlay.
Celtic and Rangers are both understood to be monitoring the Scottish Premiership standout, but Motherwell are prepared to demand a premium fee for one of the league’s most influential attackers.
Celtic finally made their first January signing after more than three weeks of inactivity, with Tomas Cvancara completing a loan switch from Borussia Monchengladbach.
The Czech international becomes the second addition at Parkhead this window, joining Julian Araujo, and is expected to be available for Sunday’s top-of-the-table clash with Hearts.
Across the city, Rangers manager Danny Rohl has suggested there could still be more movement before the window shuts, despite already bringing in three players. The Ibrox club have completed permanent deals for Tochi Chukwuani and Tuur Rommens, while Wolfsburg winger Andreas Skov Olsen has arrived on loan until the end of the season.
While both Glasgow clubs have explored the European market for reinforcements, attention has also turned closer to home. Motherwell forward Maswanhise, who is currently joint top scorer in the Premiership, has emerged as a major target following a string of impressive performances.
According to Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, the Steelmen have placed a £4 million valuation on the 23-year-old.
Maswanhise has registered 15 goals in 27 appearances this season and is regarded as one of the division’s standout performers. Motherwell are believed to be seeking a fee in excess of £4 million, a figure seen as reflective of the current market for a winger capable of operating centrally.
The Zimbabwe international has recently returned from Africa Cup of Nations duty and has wasted no time making an impact, scoring in each of Motherwell’s last four league outings. Signed from Leicester City by Stuart Kettlewell nearly 18 months ago, Maswanhise is under contract at Fir Park until the summer of 2027.
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill was in attendance for Motherwell’s Scottish Cup victory over Ross County last week, a match decided by Maswanhise’s winning goal. Rangers, meanwhile, are also credited with interest, although Motherwell have insisted no formal approach has been made.
Despite growing speculation, head coach Jens Berthel Askou remains keen to keep hold of his key players as Motherwell continue to exceed expectations this season.
Speaking earlier this month, Askou stressed his focus on maximising the potential of his current squad, adding that the club would reassess its options when the summer transfer window arrives.
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