Athletic Club are monitoring Celtic youngster Zion Pullan as a potential long-term replacement for Inaki Williams, according to La Cantera de Lezama via ED. The 15-year-old forward has impressed with prolific form for Celtic’s youth sides, registering 58 goals and 35 assists this season while playing primarily with the U17s.
The interest from Athletic comes as the club prepares for a managerial change, with Ernesto Valverde set to be replaced by former Borussia Dortmund coach Edin Terzic. Terzic is beginning to assess the squad ahead of the 2026-27 season, and despite the club’s unique Basque-only player recruitment policy, Pullan is a viable target due to his birth in Tudela, Navarre. He has recently been called up to the Spain U15 side, having previously represented Scotland at the U15 level.
Pullan’s profile is considered similar to that of Williams, a long-serving Athletic forward now aged 32. The Celtic academy product is known for his pace, dribbling ability, and goalscoring instinct, and is capable of playing as both a winger and a striker. Athletic view him as a potential successor to Williams, though a move this summer is not guaranteed.
Competition for Pullan’s signature is expected to be fierce, with numerous clubs across Europe also tracking the teenager’s progress. While Celtic will likely attempt to retain their prized asset, Athletic Club are prepared to make a push for Pullan if Terzic approves. The club’s ability to navigate its unique recruitment rules makes the transfer possible, but securing Pullan’s signature will depend on convincing him to choose San Mames over other potential destinations.
