Celtic have put Tawanda Maswanhise at the top of their wishlist for the 2026/27 season, according to Football Insider. The 23-year-old Zimbabwean forward has been in incredible form for Motherwell this year, sitting top of the Scottish Premiership scoring charts with 17 goals in 32 starts, plus two assists. His performances have grabbed the attention of scouts nationwide, and former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider exactly why Celtic are interested.
Celtic Eye Scotland’s Top Scorer as Summer Priority
Brown noted that Celtic naturally keep tabs on anyone playing that well and pointed out that since it’s often tough to convince players to move to Scotland from other leagues, proven talent already playing in the Premiership is a much better bet. He mentioned that signing someone who already knows the league removes the risk of them not settling in and usually keeps the price tag reasonable.
On top of that, Motherwell have confirmed they’re open to offers for Maswanhise, acknowledging that it’s almost impossible to keep their stars when the Old Firm comes calling. Born in November 2002, Maswanhise is under contract until 2027, which gives Celtic a solid chance to negotiate this summer.
Motherwell will likely want about £4 million, and with English Championship sides and Rangers also interested, it’s shaping up to be a real battle for his signature. Maswanhise is known for his pace and finishing, though some wonder if he can find space against teams that park the bus, a point former Celtic man Peter Grant has already made.
“Celtic have to be across anybody performing at that level,” Brown told Football Insider.
“Whenever somebody is playing at a high level for one of the Scottish clubs, Celtic and Rangers have to be aware of them and will check on their situation.
“For Celtic, it’s difficult to attract players to Scotland, so if there’s sombody already performing at a high level in the league that is ideal.
“They don’t have to worry about whether he will adapt or be prepared to make the move.
“Celtic want to sign all of the best talent in Scotland, that has to be their focus, because it ges rid of a lot of the risk and quite often they’re available at good prices.”
Does Maswanhise actually solve Celtic’s attacking issues for next season?
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – NOVEMBER 03: Tawanda Maswanhise of Motherwell looks on during a pitch inspection prior to the Premier Sports Cup Semi-Final match between Motherwell and Rangers at Hampden Park on November 03, 2024 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Celtic’s front line really lacked consistency this year, and with Daizen Maeda, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Tomas Cvancara all expected to move on, the club are desperate for a new striker. Maswanhise’s 17 goals make him look great on paper, but Celtic usually face teams that sit very deep, whereas Maswanhise does his best work when he has room to run, which is exactly how Motherwell’s direct style plays to his strengths. At £4 million, he is a fair price, but Celtic should probably see him as just one part of a bigger rebuild rather than the only solution, especially since moving to a club with higher expectations always comes with some risk.
Celtic can’t afford to drag their feet this summer. Rangers are also keen on Maswanhise, and interest from the Championship adds even more pressure. Getting a deal done early for around £3–4 million is Celtic’s best shot at landing Scotland’s most clinical forward before a bidding war drives the price too high.
