​To reach their goal, they will have to outshine several Serie A clubs, but in my view we should go all out to sign the Scotland international who impressed in the Italian top flight despite Hellas Verona’s relegation to Serie B. At 6ft 2in, Bowie is a physical presence, yet he’s tidy on the ball and knows where the goal is, making him a genuine Martin O’Neill-type target man. His familiarity with the Scottish football landscape is a major plus, and being Scottish further helps meet UEFA’s home-grown quota requirements for European match day squads. The 23-year-old is a player we know well from close observation during his time at Hibs; there was even credible reported interest from the club last January, though the price tag may have deterred them. Verona didn’t hesitate, paying £5 million for Bowie, and they are now looking to double their investment as they eye a higher return.
Bowie cut his teeth at Raith Rovers before moving south to Fulham, followed by numerous loan spells in the English lower leagues. His game has evolved with the tougher competition of Serie A, adding an edge to his play. Will Celtic be prepared to pay over £10 million for a player they could have signed for about half that sum just a few months ago? I have my concerns, but in my view it would be money well spent. Alongside new signing Camilo Duran, Bowie would upgrade Celtic’s attacking options, and under Martin O’Neill’s guidance he could develop into a superb player for the club.
The downside could be a chorus of apprehension from board loyalists who fear reckless spending, as was seen with Adam Idah. Celtic reportedly preferred a loan deal for Idah and rejected a £3m purchase, even though Idah’s goals helped win us the league and he scored the decisive late winner in the Scottish Cup final, allowing Norwich to command a substantial fee for the talented Irish striker.
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