Celtic want Mowbray, West Brom admit

Scottish giants Celtic are trying to tempt manager Tony Mowbray to leave his post at relegated English Premier League side West Bromwich Albion and join them, the English club confirmed on Monday.

Celtic chief executive Peter Lawell has contacted the Baggies, asking for permission to approach the ex-Celtic player, West Brom admitted on its website. Albion chairman Jeremy Peace made it clear he wants Mowbray to stay in place, in spite of West Brom’s relegation from the Premiership at the end of last season.

“I made it absolutely clear the approach was not welcome because we have an ongoing project at Albion in which Tony is an integral part.”

Peace maintained he would only speak to Mowbray about the approach if certain conditions were met. “We inserted a compensation figure when Tony signed a new contract 16 months ago,” he explained.

“Celtic have been made aware of the figure and if they agree to pay this, only then will I speak to Tony and get his thoughts on the situation,” the Baggies’ boss added.

Celtic are seeking a replacement for Gordon Strachan who has left after four years at the club.

As well as playing in defence for Celtic between 1991 and 1995, 45-year-old Mowbray also has experience of managing in the Scottish Premier League, taking Hibernian to two top-four finishes in 2005 and 2006.

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