Celtic To Rival Rangers For This Emerging Scottish Midfielder: Why He Could Succeed McGregor In The Long Run | OneFootball

If a recent report from The Herald is believed to be true, Celtic have registered interest in David Watson. Rangers are also keen on securing the services of the Kilmarnock midfield prospect; however, the Hoops might hijack the move and bring him to Parkhead in the January transfer window.

The 20-year-old Scotland youth international progressed through Killie’s academy ranks before making his senior debut in 2021. After an initial sporadic status, Watson secured a regular role from the 2023-24 season onwards. So far, he has scored 13 goals and laid on 5 more in 117 appearances for his boyhood club, but the Old Firm rivals, as well as the current Premiership leaders Hearts, are stepping up the chase, given his contract at Rugby Park runs down by the closure of the current campaign.

Although he is free to pen a pre-contract agreement in January and leave on a Bosman in the summer, Celtic are open to having him in their ranks when the winter window opens in 2026. His arrival would see the Celts have a homegrown player, thus meeting UEFA’s squad requirements for European competitions.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – NOVEMBER 02: Callum McGregor of Celtic celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the Premier Sports Cup Semi Final match between Celtic and Rangers at Hampden Park on November 02, 2025, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Celtic have parted ways with Brendan Rodgers and appointed club legend Martin O’Neill. But the 73-year-old Northern Irishman has only been brought in as an interim solution until the management finds a suitable name to succeed the Northern Irishman in the long run. Rodgers and the board had disputes over transfer business throughout the summer, and the latter, therefore, must fix things in the upcoming window by bolstering the squad with competent signings.

Why Celtic Should Bring Him In

The Bhoys, on paper, are well-equipped in the middle of the park. Skipper Callum McGregor drives the show from the base as a deep-lying playmaker, and his vision, ball-carrying ability and distribution make him invaluable in Celtic’s set-up. Benjamin Nygren has been one of the most exciting summer additions, having exhibited his flexibility in various midfield roles. Also, Reo Hatate, Arne Engels, Luke McCowan and Paulo Bernardo are there among the first-team options.

Having said that, the Hoops have struggled without McGregor as a ‘number six’. Neither Bernardo nor Engels managed to replicate his quality, but Watson, hailed for his high work ethic, versatility, energy, and leadership traits, could eventually become a worthy successor in the centre of the pitch.

Greg Taylor was Celtic’s last recruit from Killie, as he was snapped up to replace Arsenal-bound Kieran Tierney. The Scotsman made significant strides as a left fullback before leaving for PAOK this summer, and the young midfield ace might make a similar impact if the champions win the race for his signature.