Celtic make approach to sign Philip Otele, Basel ready to accept £6m bid
Celtic are among a number of British clubs interested in signing Basel attacker Philip Otele.
Celtic are in need of some firepower in the January window to help Martin O’Neill guide his side to another Scottish Premiership title ahead of Hearts and Rangers.
The Hoops beat Falkirk 1-0 away from home on Wednesday night to stay six points off the league-leading Jambos, while their arch rivals are only behind them on goal difference as it stands.
O’Neill is yet to oversee a new addition to his squad since his 5 January return, with Julian Araujo loaned in from Bournemouth while Wilfried Nancy was still in charge.
The 73-year-old has called for patience from their supporters as they try to get deals over the line, with Otele potentially set to join soon if they can beat off some strong competition for his services.
Celtic face competition from Premier League sides
Nigerian winger Otele has registered eight goals and three assists in 30 appearances for Basel this season, after he scored nine times in 21 games in his debut campaign at the club in 2024-25.
The 26-year-old’s strong form has seen several bigger clubs eye his signature, with journalist Ben Jacobs revealing that Celtic have approached Basel with an enquiry, with the Swiss club considering offers in excess of €7m (£6m).
Basel have reduced their asking price, but the Hoops face competition from the likes of Lazio and Bournemouth, who have also enquired after his services, while Wolves and Birmingham City are also interested in signing him this month.
Celtic planning more attacking signings as David Fofana move lined up
Celtic’s forwards have failed to impress this season, with midfielder Benjamin Nygren their current highest scorer in the Premiership, on 10 goals after his winner at Falkirk.
Daizen Maeda has netted seven, while Johnny Kenny is on four, and Kelechi Iheanacho has scored twice in the league so far, and fans are crying out for a new striker to be signed to nail down their number nine spot.
Celtic are interested in a loan move for Chelsea forward Fofana this month, according to reports, amid some impressive form for Turkish Super Lig side Fatih Karagumruk.
They are considering a bid for his services, but face more competition from an English club in Derby County, and so will need to move quickly if they want to add him to O’Neill’s forward options soon.