Former Sunderland striker Kevin Phillips has claimed that he is surprised Celtic want to sign Charlie Wyke this summer, during a recent interview with Football Insider.

The 28-year-old is said to have held talks with the Scottish club over a move north of the border in recent weeks and it has been reported by the same publication that the Hoops have offered Wyke a long term deal in the process.

Wyke's future at Sunderland has been the subject of much debate over the past few months, with his current contract at the Stadium of Light being set to expire come the end of the month.

Celtic have long been linked with a move for the player who notched up 26 goals in the league last term, and it now appears that they are closing in on his signature.

However, Phillips has admitted his surprise over the fact that the Scot's want to sign the frontman, as he stated the following on the matter in hand:

"I’m assuming Celtic are offering him five times what Sunderland are and he can command more because he is a free agent.

"I think he could do a job up at Celtic but only if you give him the right service. You have to play a certain way when he is in your side, you need to be direct.

"Sunderland went from back to front quite early at times. If you are playing with wingers he will always provide you an option in the box. He is always in and around the penalty spot.

"His signing would be a big indication as to how Postecoglou plans to play next season.

"I am surprised they want to signing him in truth but on a free, he may be used as an impact sub. He will probably not play every week."

Last season's goal tally was by far and away Wyke's best in a Sunderland shirt and as a result there has been a plethora of interest in his services.

The Black Cats have been in talks with the player since the end of the campaign just gone and appear to be fighting a losing battle to keep their star man.

The Verdict 

As I have said on this subject before, I cannot see a way in which Wyke will be lining up in a red and white shirt come the 2021/22 campaign.

He has arguably earnt the right to choose his destiny this summer and I wouldn't be at all surprised if he heads to Celtic Park.

I am sure he would be adequately replaced by Sunderland however and I don't think too many supporters will be shocked if he does leave.

He really hit form towards the end of the season just gone but prior to that he rarely set the world alight in the North East if truth be told.