Credit: Imago

Jack Dawson

Wed 29 April 2026 16:45, UK

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Issa Doumbia has been linked with a move to Celtic in recent days ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 22-year-old midfielder currently plays for Venezia in the Serie B, with the club on track to return to the Italian top-flight.

Doumbia has been one of the biggest stars at the club so far this season, and netted a vital goal in the 2-0 victory over Empoli on the weekend.

Now, Celtic are pursuing the midfielder, which could jeopardise the long-term future of Reo Hatate at Celtic Park.

However, Doumbia could be a considerable upgrade on Hatate going into next season.

Celtic pursue £13m deal for Issa Doumbia

According to Gazzetta dello Sport via the Daily Record on 28 April, Doumbia is being valued at £13million by Venezia as the interest in the midfielder intensifies.

However, this could be a potential bargain, with the 22-year-old boasting plenty of impressive stats.

Fotmob on 29 April claims that in the Serie B this season, he is averaging 0.21 goals, 0.25 xG, 2.02 shots, 0.12 assists, a 90.3 per cent passing accuracy, 1.53 chances created and 1.07 successful dribbles per match.

Many of these stats extend Hatate’s who would surely depart if Doumbia were brought in.

Therefore, Celtic may have found themselves a significant upgrade for their midfield as they look to become the dominant force in Scotland once more.

Celtic could be set to midfield revamp

Football Insider has exclusively revealed that Arne Engels is attracting intense interest, with Borussia Dortmund the latest side to join the race.

The 22-year-old was subject to offers during the January transfer window, including a £25million bid from Nottingham Forest, but ultimately remained at Parkhead.

However, this has done little to deter interest ahead of the summer, and there is a feeling that he will be allowed to leave the Hoops for the right price.

As a result, with Benjamin Nygren also linked away, Celtic could face a complete revamp of their midfield in the summer if they are unable to keep hold of their star players.

Nevertheless, it remains to be seen if Doumbia will be part of this potential overhaul, or if the Hoops will move on to other targets.