The latest on Luke McCowan Celtic links as Tony Docherty speaks out on his future

Celtic are reportedly tracking Dundee midfielder Luke McCowan following his exploits during a stellar 2023/24 campaign at Dens Park.

Per Transfermarkt, the 26-year-old took the step up to the Scottish top flight in his stride last term, registering ten goals and five assists in 41 appearances across all competitions.

With one year left on his contract at Dundee, Celtic are monitoring his situation as Brendan Rodgers seeks further quality in midfield; however, there is no ballpark of any potential fee that could entice him to Parkhead.

Benjamin Siegrist was the last player to join the club from another Scottish Premiership outfit in 2022. In the case of McCowan, he would count towards the Bhoys’ homegrown squad slots for European competitions.

Now, Dundee boss Tony Docherty has directly addressed McCowan’s future amid rumours that he could make the switch to Celtic.

Tony Docherty on reported Celtic target Luke McCowan

Speaking to The Courier, Docherty has revealed Dundee haven’t yet received any bids for their players this window; nevertheless, he has acknowledged that speculation could continue to persist surrounding his star man.

He explained: “There is speculation all the time. I take it and Luke should take it as a huge pat on the back for the season he had. There are other players who have had very good seasons. The nature of the game is that when you are doing well you will attract suitors.

“We have not had any bids. Not that I am aware of. When we came into the building, (he) changed from a winger to a midfielder and things have happened for him. Things happen and develop but Luke McCowan is a Dundee player and I am loving working with him and hopefully that continues.”

Photo by Steve Welsh/Getty Images

Later on, he revealed talks are ongoing between both parties regarding a contract extension, as he said: “He is going to attract attention, of course he is, but he is a Dundee player and that is the way things are.”

Docherty then added: “It is something we have discussed with him and we are in talks at the moment. We are still in discussions with regard to that, and we will see how it progresses.”

McCowan is clearly a talented player who has become a central figure at Dundee; regardless, competing for silverware and appearing in theChampions League would likely be an appealing prospect for the ex-Ayr United man.

Whether he could force his way into Rodgers’ midfield on a regular basis is another question; nonetheless, his situation is one to keep an eye on over the coming weeks.