West Bromwich Albion are in talks to sign Josh Mulligan from Dundee this summer, with sources revealing the Baggies are competing directly with Celtic for the 22-year-old’s signature.
The Scotland Under-21 international is out of contract at Dens Park and could be available on a free transfer when the window opens on 1 June. It means the Baggies are trying to upset both sides of the Old Firm divide, as they’re also fighting Rangers for George Bello.
Long Standing Celtic Interest
Celtic’s pursuit is longstanding, but West Brom’s renewed push has brought them firmly into contention. Talks with Mulligan are said to be ongoing, with the Midlands club eager to secure a deal before pre-season preparations begin. Their reported interest in fellow Scot James Penrice also signals a shift towards a younger, homegrown transfer policy.
Mulligan has impressed this season with 29 league appearances and five assists, operating both as a central midfielder and a right wing-back. His versatility and athleticism have caught the eye of both Championship and Scottish Premiership scouts, and West Brom have acted swiftly to express their interest—despite still being without a permanent manager following the departure of Tony Mowbray.
Josh Mulligan Career
Mulligan’s career trajectory has been shaped by multiple loan spells and consistent development. After debuting for Dundee in the final game of the 2018–19 season, he spent time with Cove Rangers and Peterhead, where he earned rave reviews for his dynamism and maturity. Injuries disrupted parts of his 2020–21 campaign, but he bounced back to become a vital figure during Dundee’s 2022–23 Championship-winning campaign.
He scored important goals against Raith Rovers, Arbroath, and Hibernian, and filled in effectively at right-back when required. Mulligan signed a two-year contract extension in 2023 but has opted not to renew, making him a highly sought-after asset this summer.
Internationally, he has featured regularly for Scotland’s U21 side since 2022, scoring his first international goal against Northern Ireland and starting in qualification matches against Denmark and Belgium. His physical profile, technical ability, and eagerness to improve make him an attractive proposition for clubs operating with tight budgets.
Writer’s View
Josh Mulligan would be a shrewd signing for West Brom. Despite the club’s managerial vacancy, their willingness to push ahead with targeted, data-informed recruitment is a promising sign. Mulligan’s physicality and adaptability would suit the Championship well, and at 22, he represents excellent long-term value.
Competing with Celtic won’t be easy, but Albion can offer him regular game time and a platform to grow. Whether or not Ryan Mason takes the reins, bringing in Mulligan would set the right tone for a summer rebuild focused on youth, versatility, and potential.
