Motherwell midfielder David Turnbull has attracted significant interest from Celtic, with scouts reportedly monitoring the 26-year-old closely in recent months. The Steelmen are expected to demand a club-record fee for the player, potentially surpassing the £4.7 million paid for Lennon Miller’s transfer to Udinese last summer. Martin McDonald, a former Motherwell player who moved to Celtic in 2007, has encouraged the Glasgow club to act swiftly in securing Turnbull’s signature, emphasizing the midfielder’s proven ability at both domestic and international levels.
Turnbull, who made history as the first New Zealander to score twice in a single World Cup match, has been praised for his movement and goal contributions. McDonald highlighted the player’s tendency to make forward runs from midfield without the ball, comparing his style to that of former Celtic star Stiliyan Petrov. “He’s playing off Chris Wood in the World Cup and he just makes runs,” McDonald said, noting Turnbull’s seven goals and eight assists last season as indicative of his quality.
Celtic are also exploring options to bolster their attack, with Qarabag forward Camilo Duran reportedly on their radar as a potential replacement for Kelechi Iheanacho, who played a pivotal role in the club’s recent title success. Iheanacho, whose contract has expired, has expressed a desire to return to Celtic, but the club has not yet presented a formal offer.
McDonald acknowledged the complexity of the situation surrounding Iheanacho’s future. While the Nigerian striker made decisive contributions during the final stages of last season, a series of injuries limited his appearances and starts. McDonald suggested that the club’s hesitation might stem from concerns over Iheanacho’s fitness and the financial implications of signing the 29-year-old. “Is that because the body is failing him? Or is that because he wasn’t fit enough? Going into a new season, how much is he going to cost them a week to keep someone like that?” McDonald said.
Despite these uncertainties, McDonald emphasized Iheanacho’s valuable experience, noting his development under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, his time at Leicester City, and his composure in high-pressure situations. “His experience is second to none,” McDonald said, adding that Celtic’s decision would likely be influenced more by business considerations than by the striker’s recent performances in brief appearances.
As Celtic assess their transfer targets ahead of the new season, the club faces critical decisions in strengthening their squad, balancing proven talent with financial prudence.