Alex Bruce believes that Celtic could be signing an ‘outstanding’ player if they secure the services of Wigan Athletic’s young striker Joe Gelhardt.
Bruce was talking to Football Insider recently and he had some words of praise for Gelhardt. The former defender called Celtic a ‘massive club’ and hailed Gelhardt as an ‘outstanding prospect’.
He revealed that he played alongside the youngster during his time at Wigan and described him to be a ‘tenacious’ player and a ‘good finisher’.
Here is what Bruce had to say in full: “Celtic is obviously a massive club so it’s enough for anybody to think about when a club like Celtic comes in for you.
Should Celtic pay the money for Joe Gelhardt?
Yes, looks like a decent player
No, that will be pointless
“I played with Joe at Wigan when he was a young kid coming through and he’s an outstanding prospect, I have to say. He’s a tenacious young centre-forward and he’s a good finisher as well.
“He’s got a bright future ahead of him, that’s for sure. I know people at Wigan have high hopes for him. He’ll be a good signing for someone because he’s got an exciting future and he’s got good attributes.”
The Hoops have been linked with a move for the striker in recent weeks and it was reported that the Bhoys have joined many Premier League clubs in the hunt for the player. It is said that the Latics have set a £5m price tag on the young striker.
TIF Thoughts…
Bruce certainly seems to rate Gelhardt highly. The 18-year-old has made 17 Championship appearances for Wigan this season, scoring once in a total of 407 minutes for the senior side (as per Transfermarkt).
Gelhardt impressed in the FA Youth Cup last season and scored three times in just as many games for Wigan’s Under-18 side (via Transfermarkt).
It shows that he has shown some promise already and at 18, he certainly has time to improve as a footballer. With Wigan now in administration, he could now be available for a cheaper price. So if Celtic get the chance to sign him, they shouldn’t miss out.