Celtic are being tipped to pull off a “real smart” piece of business this summer by securing the signature of Kilmarnock’s standout star, David Watson.
The 21-year-old midfielder, who has recently stepped up as the Scotland Under-21 captain, is approaching the final months of his contract at Rugby Park.
With his deal set to expire on May 31, 2026, the door is wide open for a move to Celtic.
Celtic to battle Rangers and ‘lure’ Kilmarnock’s David Watson
Journalist Pete O’Rourke believes Watson is exactly the profile of player the Hoops are currently missing.
Speaking to Transfer Insider, O’Rourke highlighted the massive opportunity for Celtic to sign one of the country’s top young talents without a transfer fee.
O’Rourke told Transfer Insider, “I think there will be a lot of interest in him, as you said, due to his contract situation in the summer.
“He can be lured away on a free transfer. Celtic and Rangers obviously do try and pick up the best young talent in Scotland where they can.
“Watson definitely fits the bill in that respect. He’s having a very strong season for Kilmarnock so far this term.
“32 appearances in all competitions, three goals and two assists. As I said, it won’t be a straightforward race for Celtic or Rangers because I think there’s a lot of interest in England as well for the Scotland under-21 Captain.”
Celtic face competition from Serie A for David Watson
Celtic have plenty of money and the budget to blow Rangers out the water in terms of wages, however it seems that top clubs from Italy are also keen on the Scotland youngster.
O’Rourke contined, “And there’s also even been reported interest from some teams in Italy, where we’ve obviously seen some players move from Scotland and have instant success.
“So he might even have the opportunity to explore a move there.
“But he’s a top young player. He could be a real smart pickup by Celtic, I think, if they were to pursue his signature in the summer.
Statistical Comparison: David Watson vs. Celtic Midfield Stars (2025/26)
As Celtic look to a massive summer overhaul, the data shows why David Watson is considered a “real smart pickup” on a free transfer. The Scotland U21 captain offers a robust defensive presence and goal threat that could complement the current engine room at Parkhead.
| Player Profile | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Yellow/Red Cards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| David Watson (Kilmarnock) | 33 | 3 | 2 | 9 / 1 |
| Callum McGregor (Celtic) | 38 | 3 | 5 | 4 / 0 |
| Reo Hatate (Celtic) | 26 | 4 | 4 | 2 / 0 |
| Paulo Bernardo (Celtic) | 31 | 4 | 3 | 3 / 0 |
*Data correct as of February 23, 2026. Watson’s contract with Kilmarnock FC expires on May 31, 2026.
“He’s only 21, I think he’s only going to get better and better, and he’s a type of player that Celtic don’t have in their squad right now as well.
“So I think we know it’s going to be a huge summer ahead for Celtic. There’ll be a new manager in charge, most likely, and there’ll be a big overhaul of the squad as well.
“So picking up somethone like Watson on a free could be a real smart piece of business by Celtic.”
With a major squad overhaul expected under a new permanent manager this summer, Watson’s energy and leadership make him an ideal target.
However, Celtic face a “straightforward race” against Rangers, as well as interest from the English Championship and Serie A.
Securing the Scotland starlet for £0 would be a massive statement of intent as the post-interim era begins at Celtic Park.
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