Leuven striker Thomas Henry reportedly wants to join Celtic over interest from arch-rivals Rangers and Belgian side Gent [Football Insider].

The Lowdown: Celtic eye Henry as uncertainty over Edouard's future grows

As the transfer window enters its latter stages, Hoops manager Ange Postecoglou will be keen to strengthen his forward line sooner rather than later, amid continued speculation over Odsonne Edouard’s future.

One man who the Hoops have allegedly been looking to acquire recently has been 26-year-old Henry, with a £7 million swoop being mooted for his services [The Scotsman].

Could Celtic now have gained a sizeable advantage in their pursuit of the 6ft 4in ace owing to recent reports?

The Latest: Henry prefers Celtic move over Gent or Rangers

Making a surprise revelation to well known publication Football Insider, Henry’s UK representative, Paul Tait, said: “Thomas’ preference is to join Celtic if they can agree a fee with Leuven.”

However, he also added: “Gent have agreed a fee with Leuven and they are in pole position to land Thomas”.

Gent are said to be looking for a suitable replacement for departed forward Roman Yaremchuk and have identified Henry, however this news may well put the ball firmly back in Celtic’s court.

The Scottish Sun claimed that the Celts were on the brink of winning the race for the Frenchman earlier this week, while Crystal Palace, Roma and Newcastle United have also been keeping an eye on his situation.

The Verdict: Henry would give Celtic an alternative outlet in attack

Celtic could certainly benefit from having another striking option amongst their ranks. Possessing the ability to get on the end of crosses and bring others into play, Henry would represent a type of frontman that the Celts may have lacked in recent seasons.

In 2020/21, he produced some excellent numbers for his current employers, registering 28 goal contributions in 33 appearances; 21 goals and seven assists [Transfermarkt].

Netting three in three outings in the new campaign, his ability to constantly provide a focal point in attack has seen him record an average of 4.3 attempts at goal per fixture in 2021/22, which would only add to an already impressive Celtic offense [WhoScored].

Needing to recruit correctly to reclaim the Scottish Premiership title, Henry would be a step in the right direction who could contribute significantly domestically and in Europe for Celtic.

In other news, Celtic have been linked with a move for a Republic of Ireland star.