‘Balikwisha wants to join Celtic with transfer talks in progress’
Michel Ange Balikwisha is keen on a move to Celtic as the Hoops look to add more attacking options for Brendan Rodgers this summer.
There were few issues for the Bhoys as they romped to a fourth-consecutive SPFL title last season, finishing 17 points ahead of Rangers.
But Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises’ takeover, and the £20million investment that soon followed, is threatening to restore parity between the two old rivals.
Russell Martin has taken over to replace Barry Ferguson, and Rangers fans’ excitement is brewing with Lyall Cameron joining the club, and seemingly plenty more to follow.
With issues in Celtic’s attacking department, the club are looking to make Balikwisha their first signing of the summer window.
Talks between Celtic and Balikwisha underway
With Jota out injured for the foreseeable future and Daizen Maeda linked with a Parkhead exit, the left-wing position is in dire need of attention.
Mick Brown told Football Insider exclusively that Celtic were prepared to spend big to back Brendan Rodgers this summer.
According to Sky Sports Switzerland journalist Sacha Tavolieri, talks are underway between the Hoops and Balikwisha.
The Royal Antwerp winger is reportedly looking forward to making the move.
Pete O’Rourke revealed back in December 2024 to Football Insider that Celtic were keen on doing a deal for Balikwisha, but the transfer failed to materialise at the time.
Antwerp are currently dealing with financial issues and finished 24 points behind Belgian Pro League champions Union St-Gilloise last season.
O’Rourke told Football Insider exclusively that Balikwisha had been a long-term target for Rodgers, and have been given encouragement to get a deal done due to the Belgian side’s financial situation.
Celtic and Rangers in race to strengthen squads
Football Insider Verdict
With a semblance of financial parity restored between the two, an arms race between the Old Firm rivals is now well and truly underway.
Champions League football remains the biggest divider between Celtic and Rangers, finance expert Dan Plumley told Football Insider.
But the Bears now have investment for their owners, making them a far scarier prospect for the Hoops to deal with.
This summer is shaping up to be a pivotal one, as both clubs have gaps to fill in their squads, and the means to make deals happen.
Rangers are likely still a few seasons away from being true challengers to Celtic, but if the Hoops aren’t careful, that gap could close quicker than expected.