Celtic are exploring a summer move for Plymouth Argyle striker Bim Pepple as they prepare for significant change in their forward line, and they have now learned the striker has a release clause.
With uncertainty surrounding multiple attacking options at Parkhead, the League One forward has emerged as a viable and attainable target.
Celtic’s interest reportedly extends to Lorent Tolaj as well, but Pepple has an intriguing long-term profile. The 23-year-old, signed from Luton Town for a fee that could hit £600,000, has enjoyed the most productive campaign of his career at Plymouth and, crucially, he has a release clause in his contract. That detail alters the dynamic entirely. While Argyle may talk tough, a defined price point gives Celtic clarity if they decide to act.
Plymouth boss Tom Cleverley confirmed this week that Pepple does have a clause, whereas Tolaj does not.
“For as long as they are Argyle players and they are playing with that badge on their chest they are giving everything for this club.
“They have both got good mentalities to have tunnel vision. They know their job.
“They have got high ambitions both individually and collectively at this football club, and neither of them have got any appetite to leave the football club.”
Publicly, Argyle insist both players are fully committed. Privately, release clauses exist for moments like this.
Bim Pepple Journey
Pepple’s journey has been anything but conventional. Born in England and raised in Canada, he began his senior career in the Canadian Premier League before earning a move to Getafe’s youth system. A prolific return spell with Cavalry earned him a transfer to Luton Town in 2022, but a series of loans followed at Grimsby Town, Bromley, Inverness, Southend and Chesterfield. It was not until Plymouth signed him last summer that he found continuity.
This season, he has delivered. Strong running beyond defenders, improved composure in front of goal and a growing physical presence have turned him into one of League One’s most effective forwards. During one recent stretch, he scored eight goals in nine matches, underlining the kind of momentum that catches the attention of recruitment departments north of the border.
Celtic’s Need
Celtic’s need for attacking clarity is obvious. Daizen Maeda’s time at the club appears to be drawing to a close after months of exit speculation. Johnny Kenny does not yet look ready to lead the line consistently, while other options have failed to lock down the role with authority. A reset is coming.
Pepple would not arrive as the finished article, nor would he command a premium fee compared to established European targets. That is part of the appeal. Celtic have previously benefited from identifying upwardly mobile talent before their value spikes. The existence of a clause reduces risk and removes the prospect of drawn-out negotiations.
Tolaj may be the more polished finisher today, but Pepple arguably offers the greater ceiling. If Celtic are serious about refreshing their forward line with energy, athleticism and resale potential, the Plymouth striker fits the profile.
