Celtic in advanced talks to sign Joel Mvuka as 2026 World Cup dream emerges
Celtic are looking to add to their squad before transfer deadline day, with Martin O’Neill’s side closing in on a move for Joel Mvuka.
O’Neill has been vocal about the need for further additions at Celtic since his return to the Hoops in January.
To date, the Old Firm outfit have only brought in two players in the winter window, with both being loan moves.
With Celtic at massive risk of missing out on the Scottish Premiership title this season, time is running out to secure signings before the window closes.
As a result, moves are now being made, with the Hoops closing in on Joel Mvuka.
Celtic closing in on deal to sign Joel Mvuka from Lorient
According to Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph via X on 1 February, Celtic are in advanced talks to sign Mvuka.
The 23-year-old right winger currently plays for Lorient in Ligue 1 and has picked up two assists in 17 appearances in all competitions this season.
It is believed that an agreement between the two clubs is edging closer, with some details still needing to be sorted.
Celtic are in advanced talks to sign Lorient winger Joel Mvuka.
— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) February 1, 2026
It’s understood the clubs are edging closer to a deal with some details still to be sorted.
Mvuka, 23, is believed to be keen to join #CelticFC – with hopes of breaking into the Norway squad for the World Cup. pic.twitter.com/AM5yHpxQ94
The Norwegian is keen on a move to Celtic and is hopeful that it could help earn him a spot in the upcoming World Cup squad in the summer, with the youngster previously being capped at Under-21 level.
Mvuka was on the bench yesterday during Lorient’s 2-1 win over Nantes, and he was not brought on.
How good is Mvuka?
According to Fotmob on 1 February, the winger has plenty of qualities that will excite the Celtic Park faithful.
So far this season in Ligue 1, he has proven to be an excellent dribbler, performing 0.97 per match.
On top of this, he is creating 0.32 big chances and having 1.29 shots per game as well as producing a 0.08 xG.
| Joel Mvuka’s Ligue 1 stats this season | Per 90 minutes |
| Successful dribbles | 0.97 |
| Big chances created | 0.32 |
| Shots | 1.29 |
| xG | 0.08 |
| Passing completion | 79.1% |
Therefore, the winger clearly has the potential to be a key attacking outlet at the Glaswegian club as they look to return to the summit.
However, it remains to be seen if he can translate these skills into the Scottish Premiership if Celtic are able to complete the signing before transfer deadline day, which is set to take place on Monday.