Athletic Club is gearing up for a new chapter with Edin Terzic taking over from iconic manager Ernesto Valverde this summer. The incoming head coach is already focused on squad improvements for the 2026-27 season. Despite the club’s strict Basque-only recruitment policy, there remain promising avenues for player acquisition.
One such promising talent identified by Los Leones is Zion Pullan, a 15-year-old sensation currently making waves in Celtic’s youth academy. This season, Pullan has showcased exceptional form, netting 58 goals and providing 35 assists for the Scottish club, most recently featuring for their U17 team.
While Pullan has represented Scotland at the U15 level, he has also been called up to Spain’s U15 squad. Crucially, he is eligible to join Athletic Club due to his birthplace in Tudela, Navarre. Reports from La Cantera de Lezama, cited by ED, indicate that Pullan is highly regarded by the hierarchy at Los Leones.
Pullan Seen as a Potential Successor to Inaki Williams
Zion Pullan is characterized by his explosive ability in one-on-one duels, his knack for exploiting space, and his impressive goal-scoring record. His versatility as a winger or striker mirrors the profile of Athletic icon Inaki Williams. With the latter now 32 years old, club officials are reportedly exploring the possibility of replacing him with the talented Celtic youngster. Athletic Club may attempt to secure Pullan’s signature as early as this summer.
However, Athletic Club faces stiff competition for Pullan’s signature. The prodigious teenager is attracting considerable interest from numerous clubs across Europe. While Celtic may find it challenging to retain their prized academy prospect, a move to San Mames is far from guaranteed. Nevertheless, Athletic Club officials are expected to pursue their interest vigorously if Pullan is deemed their primary target.