Celtic have been linked with a move for Hearts striker James Wilson, who has become a regular in the Jambos’ first team this season at the age of 18. In March, Wilson received his first call-up to the senior Scotland squad for their UEFA Nations League play-off against Greece.
He made his full international debut in the second leg of the tie, becoming the youngest player ever to represent Scotland at 18 years and 17 days old — breaking a 138-year-old record previously held by John Lambie.
Celtic’s Daizen Maeda celebrates scoring their second goal REUTERS/Russell Cheyne
According to Chronicle Live, James Wilson has been scouted by both Celtic and Rangers, while Newcastle United are also said to be showing strong interest in a move for the young Scottish striker.
With Wilson reportedly valued at around £1 million by Hearts, it’s certainly a move Celtic could look to seal in the summer, especially with his current contract running until 2027.
♥️ “I scored in his first game, he gave me a lot of opportunities… managers change but, as players, we have to take some responsibility…”
Hearts forward James Wilson on Neil Critchley’s departure and his nomination for PFA Scotland Young Player of the Year 🔽 pic.twitter.com/zd3dSExulq
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) April 29, 2025
Whether Celtic will make a formal bid for Wilson remains to be seen, especially with strong competition from Newcastle United. It will be difficult to match the financial power of the Premier League side and the appeal of English top-flight football.
However, if Wilson is focused on developing his career rather than simply chasing a wage increase, Celtic could offer the perfect platform — learning alongside the likes of Daizen Maeda and Adam Idah up front.
With five goals this season in the Premiership, Wilson was recently nominated for the PFA Scotland Young Player of the Year award alongside Arne Engels — a clear sign that the rest of Scottish football is taking notice of his breakthrough campaign at Hearts.
