Shaun Maloney sees audacious bid for reported Celtic target rejected

Former Celtic midfielder Shaun Maloney is back in the Scottish market as he looks to bolster his Wigan Athletic side before the transfer window closes. Having only been appointed over the weekend, Maloney has wasted no time in looking to the transfer market as he looks to avoid relegation from the Championship.

As reported by The Sun, Maloney is in for reported Celtic target Kevin Nisbet and hat-trick hero Josh Campbell from his former employers. The Edinburgh club have rejected the bids but it is expected that Maloney and Wigan will be back in on Tuesday with improved offers. The rumour states that the bid was little more than half the £2.5m that Hibs agreed with Millwall. It is an audacious bid but there is certainly no love lost between Maloney and Hibernian.

The 40-year-old was sacked by Hibs after just four months in the hot seat, a bizarre decision by Ron Gordon but one that will have been a blow to the ex-Aston Villa and Wigan winger.

Kevin Nisbet of Scotland (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

In 89 appearances for Hibs, Nisbet has 35 goals and 12 assists. It appeared that he was set to sign for Millwall and that Celtic had passed up the opportunity to sign the player. They will be aware of his talents but given the fee involved, it is clear the Scottish Champions could’ve made an approach with relative ease. Albeit, with South Korean striker Oh signing, the manager was likely content to move forward with the new man and Kyogo competing for minutes – with Giakoumakis headed for the exit. If he remains at Hibs, there would be further speculation that Celtic may revisit their interest in the summer.

The highly-rated Maloney made 215 appearances for The Hoops across two spells and is remembered fondly for his time at the club. His time at Hibs is remembered less fondly by supporters of the Edinburgh outfit.

Maloney, who started his coaching journey at Celtic, had worked with Belgium as Assistant Manager to Roberto Martinez. Although, he will be hoping that his time with Wigan is more successful than his stint at Easter Road.