Transfer News: Celtic Lead the Chase for Manchester City Defender as Interest in Blues Youngsters Heats Up
As the 2025 summer transfer window continues to gather pace, Manchester City are once again at the center of attention — not only for their high-profile targets and sales, but also for the increasing interest in their vast pool of young talent. Among those drawing significant attention is a highly rated City defender, with Celtic now reportedly leading the race to secure his signature. This move highlights the broader pattern emerging in the window: top European clubs are aggressively targeting City’s academy prospects, who are seen as valuable assets with strong technical foundations and high ceilings.
Celtic Target Promising Defender: Who Is He?
The player at the center of the current buzz is Josh Wilson-Esbrand, a dynamic and technically gifted left-back who has progressed through Manchester City’s esteemed youth system. Known for his pace, ball control, and ability to push forward as a modern full-back, Wilson-Esbrand has been on the radar of several clubs after a series of promising loan spells and sporadic first-team appearances.
The 21-year-old spent time on loan at Coventry City and Reims in France, where he gained valuable experience, maturity, and exposure to senior football. His performances in Ligue 1, in particular, showcased his attacking flair and composure under pressure. Though he hasn’t managed to break into Pep Guardiola’s regular plans — due largely to the presence of Joško Gvardiol and Nathan Aké, who often fill in at left-back — Wilson-Esbrand remains a highly regarded prospect.
Why Celtic Are Leading the Race
Celtic’s interest in Wilson-Esbrand stems from both tactical needs and their long-term recruitment strategy. With the departure of Greg Taylor potentially looming and manager Brendan Rodgers looking to reshape the backline ahead of another UEFA Champions League campaign, the Scottish champions are prioritizing players who offer both development potential and European pedigree.
Wilson-Esbrand fits the profile perfectly. He’s a player capable of contributing immediately in domestic competitions and still young enough to develop into a top-tier talent. Moreover, his time in Manchester City’s academy ensures he is well-versed in a possession-based, attacking style of football — aligning with Rodgers’ tactical preferences.
Crucially, Celtic’s growing reputation as a platform for young Premier League talent could help tip the scales. In recent years, the club has provided a springboard for players like Jeremie Frimpong — another former City academy graduate — who moved to Bayer Leverkusen after impressing in Scotland.
Other Clubs in the Race
While Celtic are currently in pole position, they are not alone in pursuing Wilson-Esbrand. Multiple English Championship clubs, including Watford and Sunderland, have also expressed interest. Abroad, clubs in Belgium and the Netherlands are monitoring his situation closely, believing they can offer regular top-flight football and the kind of technical league environment that aids player development.
Nevertheless, Celtic’s participation in the Champions League and the promise of significant playing time make them an attractive destination.
Broader Trend: Clubs Targeting Manchester City’s Youngsters
Wilson-Esbrand is just one of many young players at Manchester City attracting transfer interest this summer. The club’s academy, now widely considered one of the best in Europe, continues to produce high-caliber players. However, due to the strength and depth of the first team, opportunities are limited — creating a situation where clubs across Europe are watching closely for chances to swoop in.
Some notable names on the radar this summer include:
Rico Lewis: Though more integrated into the first team, several Premier League clubs have asked about a potential loan or permanent deal.
Carlos Borges: The Portuguese winger left City last year, but his move sparked a chain of interest in other similar attacking talents.
Oscar Bobb: Norwegian starlet who impressed when called upon last season, but may also seek regular starts elsewhere if playing time is limited.
Finley Burns and Shea Charles: Both defenders have also attracted attention from Championship and European clubs looking for tough, technically skilled young defenders.
City’s Stance on Selling Youth
Manchester City’s approach to youth development is structured but pragmatic. While they are committed to nurturing talent, they are equally focused on making smart business decisions. Players who are not likely to challenge for first-team football within two seasons are usually sold — but with buy-back clauses, sell-on percentages, or performance-related add-ons inserted into deals.
In the case of Wilson-Esbrand, it’s likely City would agree to a permanent transfer to Celtic only if these conditions are met. That would allow them to benefit financially in the short term while retaining a degree of control over the player’s future.
The Appeal of the Scottish Premiership
For young English talents like Wilson-Esbrand, the Scottish Premiership is increasingly seen as a viable step. The league is competitive, offers consistent match experience, and the top clubs — particularly Celtic and Rangers — provide exposure to European football.
In addition to Frimpong, others such as Jota, Cameron Carter-Vickers, and Matt O’Riley have used the Scottish top flight to rebuild or accelerate their careers. Celtic, under Rodgers, aim to further enhance this reputation by continuing to attract high-potential players who can both deliver results and generate long-term value.
Tactical Fit: Wilson-Esbrand and Celtic
If the transfer goes through, Wilson-Esbrand could thrive in Rodgers’ system. His overlapping runs, ability to beat a man, and sharp deliveries from the flank would give Celtic another dimension in attack. Defensively, his speed and awareness could help neutralize counter-attacks, something Celtic have struggled with in recent European campaigns.
In a 4-3-3 or 3-5-2 setup, Wilson-Esbrand could operate as a traditional full-back or a wing-back — roles he’s already been tested in during his loan spells. His adaptability would allow Rodgers tactical flexibility, especially in the Champions League where systems must change depending on opposition strength.
What Happens Next?
Talks between Celtic and Manchester City are reportedly at an advanced stage, and personal terms are not expected to be an issue. With the transfer window still open for several weeks, a formal bid is expected imminently. City are thought to be open to a deal in the region of £7–10 million, provided the right clauses are included.
Should Celtic complete the signing, it would be seen as another shrewd acquisition in their recent transfer history — and possibly one of the standout moves in the SPFL this summer.
Final Thoughts
Manchester City’s willingness to sell young stars like Josh Wilson-Esbrand underlines a growing truth in modern football: even the biggest clubs cannot hoard talent forever. With Celtic leading the chase for the promising defender, the Scottish giants are positioning themselves smartly, capitalizing on opportunity and strengthening their squad with a player who still has “the world at his feet.”
For Wilson-Esbrand, the move could be a defining moment — a chance to shine, to develop, and to show exactly why he was once considered one of the brightest young full-backs in the country. And for City, it’s another opportunity to reinforce their reputation as not just a football powerhouse, but also a factory of elite-level talent.
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