Alan Hutton has suggested Celtic could make a move for West Bromwich Albion striker Charlie Austin in the summer, noting that he believes manager Neil Lennon would be interested.
The 30-year-old joined the Baggies last summer for £4 million and hasn't had the sort of impact either he or his club would likely have hoped.
Austin has been in and out of Slaven Bilic's starting XI and has scored just nine times in his 30 appearances this term.
You feel the jury is still out whether he is the right man to lead the line for the Baggies and, speaking on the Keeping the Ball on the Ground podcast, he suggested that he had been keen on a move to Celtic in the past.
Lennon's side could be set to lose exciting young striker Odsonne Edouard this summer, who has been tipped for a Premier League move.
Following his recent comments, Hutton has told Football Insider that he believes the Scottish club could swoop for Austin as a potential replacement this summer.
He said: "I think he’s an excellent player, I’ve played against him many times and he’s really good at what he does.
“Whether it’ll depend on Edouard leaves or if the striker situation at Celtic, it could be an option. It’s definitely one that’s not going to break the bank so it could be an option.
“Whether he would come up and be a regular starter, I’m not so sure but I think as an option in your squad, he’d definitely be good to have. He’s got great experience, played at high levels, and scored goals.
I don’t think you can ever turn your nose up at a player like that. I do see it being an option for Lennon.”
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The Verdict
This is an interesting suggestion and certainly one that may work for all parties involved.
The Baggies look on course to secure promotion to the Premier League and will surely be looking to strengthen their forward line, which may mean Austin is excess to requirements.
The 30-year-old has indicated his interest in a move to Celtic previously, while Lennon could be chasing a replacement for Eduoard.
Austin has hardly been pulling up trees this season but he would not be the first player to rejuvenate his career north of the border.