Following the dream debut of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Martin O’Neill’s Celtic are now chasing Motherwell star and former Leicester City gem Tawanda Maswanhise.
Celtic may have found the blueprint for their future transfer success. The arrival of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain as a free agent has already paid dividends, with the former Liverpool man netting a 91st-minute winner on his debut against Livingston.
Now, manager Martin O’Neill is looking to repeat that masterstroke. The Hoops have reportedly established contact to sign Motherwell sensation Tawanda Maswanhise, a player who is quickly becoming the most talked-about talent in the Scottish Premiership.
The “Class” of Oxlade-Chamberlain
The buzz at Parkhead is still centered on Oxlade-Chamberlain’s instant impact. Speaking after the crucial win that brought Celtic within a point of Rangers, O’Neill couldn’t hide his delight:
“He’s been a class player, there’s no question about it. He turns the game for us… I couldn’t be more pleased with him.”
With the midfield veteran providing the experience, Celtic are now pivoting towards youth and clinical finishing to bolster their attack for next season.
Who is Tawanda Maswanhise?
A graduate of the Leicester City academy, Maswanhise has exploded since moving north of the border. His stats this season are nothing short of remarkable:
- Appearances: 30
- Goals: 18
- Status: Former “match winner” as described by Stuart Kettlewell.
The 23-year-old was already a target for both Celtic and Rangers in January, but with his contract at Motherwell set to enter its final stages (expiring in 2027), the summer window represents a “now or never” moment for the Steelmen to cash in.
A Summer Battle Brewing
Celtic’s interest in Maswanhise isn’t an isolated move. The club is also being linked with RB Leipzig’s Xaver Schlager, signaling a clear intent from the board to back O’Neill with high-caliber signings.
However, landing Maswanhise won’t be easy. With Rangers also keeping close tabs on the forward, Celtic have moved quickly to establish contact and move to the front of the queue. If he can replicate his Motherwell form in the green and white hoops, the “Leicester gem” could be the perfect heir to Celtic’s attacking throne.
Ronald Mike is a football writer covering the English Premier League, providing match analysis, tactical insight, and coverage of key rivalries and title races across the season.
