Bolton Wanderers have completed the signing of Irish striker Johnny Kenny on loan from Celtic, a deal that runs until the end of the 2025/26 season, designed to boost the team’s goalscoring options for the run-in in Bolton, Greater Manchester.
The 22-year-old player officially joined the club on February 2, 2026 — transfer deadline day. According to Bolton Wanderers’ official announcement, the club had been interested in Kenny since the summer of 2024 and pursued him again before securing this loan. Reports also say Bolton had a reported permanent bid turned down in 2025 before Celtic agreed to allow Kenny to move on loan; Celtic had previously extended Kenny’s contract at Parkhead. Kenny chose Bolton despite reported interest from clubs in Germany (Schalke) and Denmark (AGF).
Kenny is praised for his pace and finishing, and he arrived with strong recent form after scoring 20 times for Shamrock Rovers in 2024 — 13 in the League of Ireland and the rest in European competition. Kenny told the club he wanted to bring the experience he gained at Celtic to Bolton and to seek more first‑team minutes after limited opportunities at Parkhead. His arrival is the latest addition under head coach Steven Schumacher (who replaced Ian Evatt in early 2025) as the club chases promotion.
Kenny joined full first‑team training on February 10, 2026, as he prepared for a possible debut. Manager Steven Schumacher said the plan was for Kenny to ‘train fully with the group’ so he ‘may be available for selection’ for the upcoming fixture against Lincoln City. The club hope the new signing will play a significant role in their push for a higher division this season.
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