Celtic are always on the lookout for the next big thing. Unfortunately, they do not have a great recent record when it comes to developing youngsters into first-team regulars but the only way to change that is by focusing in that area. And it looks like a highly-rated striker is in the sights of the Hoops right now.
The player we are talking about is Mason Melia. The 17-year-old striker already has more than 50 appearances for St Patrick's Athletic and has scored 10 goals at the senior level as well. Other than that, he has also represented the Republic of Ireland at multiple youth international levels.
That has caught the eye of several teams around Europe. Celtic are amongst them and look like one of the frontrunners in the race to sign the striker.
As reported by the Irish Mirror, Melia has travelled to Celtic amid growing interest in the St Patrickâs Athletic player. His visit to the Scottish champions is believed to have taken place last week. The striker had already made a trip to Tottenham Hotspur before Christmas. Italian side Bologna are also eager to sign him, while there is also interest from the Bundesliga and Belgium.
Tottenham Hotspur-linked striker visits Celtic
It remains to be seen what the future holds for Melia. But considering his visit to Celtic, it certainly looks like the Hoops are in the mix to sign him.
Of course, someone like Melia would not be expected to come in and make an immediate impact. But hopefully, in the long run, he could develop into a key player for the Hoops.
The third striker role at Celtic seems to be up for grabs at the moment. Johnny Kenny impressed in a recent appearance while quite a few players have been linked with a move to Parkhead.