Football Insider pundit Kevin Campbell has been reacting to Celtic’s planned move for Sunderland striker Charlie Wyke.
The Lowdown: Hoops plan long-term offer
According to Football Insider, who have been informed by a Hoops source, Celtic will step up their pursuit of the Black Cats forward this week.
He is out of contract in two weeks’ time and Celtic are reportedly planning to offer Wyke a long-term offer.
The 28-year-old, who scored 30 goals last season, is thought to be ‘very keen’ to move to Parkhead.
Wyke stands at 6 foot 1 and it seems as if he fits the bill for the Hoops due to his availability, age and pedigree.
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The Latest: Campbell reacts
Campbell was talking to Football Insider following that transfer update.
The 51-year-old believes Wyke would score goals at Celtic Park and labelled him ‘exceptional’ in the air.
“Wyke is no Edouard but at the end of the day there is different ways to skin a cat.
“You do not always have to follow the same plan.
“I just think a good player in Wyke could go up there and play with better players and show another level of performance. I think he could have a real impact up there, I do.
“It is a case of watch this space. He has not played at that level but he has shown this season that he is a very good player.
“I think he will score goals, especially if you give him the right kind of service. He’s exceptional in the air.”
The Verdict: Edouard and Wyke compared
Odsonne Edouard looks set to leave Parkhead after telling friends he will be joining Leicester City.
Edouard and Wyke appear to be different types of strikers, so the Hoops may have to alter their attacking style, should the latter replace the Frenchman.
As per WhoScored, Wyke averaged 4.8 aerial duels won in League One last season, compared to Edouard’s one per match in the Scottish Premiership.
Edouard completed more successful dribbles 1.6, to Wyke’s 0.3, so Celtic may have to take a more direct approach when it comes to getting the best out of Wyke, should he move to Scotland.
If Leigh Griffiths fails to earn a new Hoops deal, Celtic may have to look at another attacking addition, but it seems as if right now, their focus is on signing Wyke.
In other news: Trophy-laden club captain wanted by Ange Postecoglou; he is a big fan of Celtic coach, find out more here.