Andy Halliday gives verdict on whether Celtic would spend ‘£6m’ on Hearts striker Claudio Braga

Celtic are expected to prioritise attacking reinforcements when the January transfer window opens, with goals proving to be a persistent problem despite recent progress.

Although Wilfried Nancy recorded his first victory as Celtic manager at the weekend, concerns remain — particularly in front of goal. The Hoops dominated Aberdeen and created enough chances to win by a far heavier margin, yet a lack of clinical finishing once again prevented them from fully capitalising on their superiority.

With Hearts currently sitting at the top of the Premiership table, Celtic are eager to close the gap, and strengthening their forward line could be key. That has inevitably sparked speculation about whether they could attempt to prise away one of Hearts’ standout performers this season, Claudio Braga.

Would Celtic really spend £6m on Braga?

There is little doubt Celtic have the financial muscle to target players domestically if they choose to. As Scotland’s dominant force over the past decade, the Hoops have previously shown they can outbid rivals — even when those rivals are enjoying rare periods of success.

However, Hearts would be far less inclined to sell one of their most influential players, particularly given their current position and ambitions. It has been some time since the Tynecastle club have found themselves leading the league, and retaining key figures like Braga will be central to maintaining that momentum.

The subject was debated on Clyde 1, where the possibility of Celtic making a substantial bid for the Hearts forward was raised. Andy Halliday was quick to pour cold water on suggestions that the Glasgow club would go as high as £6 million for Braga, despite his excellent form this season — which notably includes a goal at Celtic Park.

“Hindsight is a wonderful thing, we have just come up with two scenarios there,” Halliday said. “I don’t see Celtic paying £6 million for Braga.”

Braga’s impact at Hearts this season

Hearts’ data-driven recruitment approach, led by Jamestown Analytics, has once again delivered impressive results. Braga arrived in the summer from Norwegian second-tier side Aalesunds, and his transformation into one of the Premiership’s most effective attackers has been rapid.

Now 26, Braga has established himself as a consistent threat, combining work rate with end product — exactly the type of forward Celtic have lacked at times this campaign.

His league numbers underline that influence:

• Appearances: 18
• Goals: 8
• Assists: 2
• WhoScored rating: 7.00

While Celtic’s interest in a proven domestic goalscorer is understandable, Halliday’s comments suggest that a £6 million move for Braga is unlikely. For Hearts, holding onto their in-form forward could be just as valuable as any transfer fee as they attempt to sustain an unexpected title challenge.