Tosh McKinlay was spotted watching today´s Dundee United v Hibs Scottish Cup tie which ended in a 2-2 draw.
Celtic will have matches watched for a variety of reasons but following ón from Nicky Hammond taking in last week´s game between Partick Thistle and Dundee United it´s not difficult to conclude that Lawrence Shankland is a transfer target.
The strikers´ form has made clubs in England sit up and take notice of a scoring record that is close to a goal a game over the last two and a half seasons.
Some social media reports have also linked Celtic with Hibs winger Martin Boyle who played under Neil Lennon at Easter Road.
The Sun reports:
CELTIC scout Tosh McKinlay has been pictured casting an eye over striker Lawrence Shankland.
The Hoops talent spotter was in the stands at Tannadice as Dundee United hosted Hibs in the Scottish Cup.
Parkhead head of recruitment Nick Hammond watched the Scotland star in action against Partick Thistle last week.
United goal machine Shankland was on fire as he hit home a perfect hat-trick in the 4-1 rout at Firhill.
And the 24-year-old was on target again as he hit home the equaliser in the 2-2 draw with Jack Ross’ Hibs.
Shankland has scored an incredible 25 goals in 26 appearances for Robbie Neilson’s Championship leaders this season.
In midweek Celtic signed Patryk Klimala for 4m euros but yesterday´s decision to play with two strikers- Odsonne Edouard and Leigh Griffiths- could create an opening for another striker.
Vakoun Bayo has been linked with a loan move away from Celtic which could open the door to move for Shankland.
United have a 17 point lead at the top of the Championship and seem certain to return to the SPFL Premiership next season.
One drawback to selling Shankland is the broken ankle that Nicky Clark suffered last week which leaves them even more dependant on Shankland.
