Celtic fans send strong transfer message after Michel-Ange Balikwisha deal is completed

Celtic fans send strong transfer message after Michel-Ange Balikwisha deal is completed

Ciaran Morrison

Correspondent AUTHORITY Football finance journalist specialising in the financial landscape of the Premier League and SPFL. FOCUS Financial analysis, club economics, and data-led coverage across the top flight and Scottish football. THE INSIGHT Ciaran utilises a network of financial and industry contacts to deliver verified, data-driven analysis. He provides the numbers behind the noise to ensure fans understand the fiscal reality driving decisions at the top of the game.

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Celtic supporters have been left frustrated at the timing of new addition Michel-Ange Balikwisha after his transfer to Parkhead was confirmed.

The result means Celtic drop into the Europa League despite being heavy favourites to progress past Kairat.

Celtic have signed seven new players this summer, but the January sale of Kyogo and the departure of Nicolas Kuhn has hit the squad hard at the start of this campaign.

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers looks dejected
Brendan Rodgers still wants to strengthen the squad (Photo Credit: Getty Images)

Celtic announce Michel-Ange Balikwisha signing

Taking to X [28 August], Celtic announced the arrival of winger Balikwisha from Royal Antwerp, and subject to international clearance, the 24-year-old could make his debut in the Glasgow derby against Rangers.

Many supporters though could not get excited about the signing coming just two days after their Champions League exit.

Fans slammed how long the signing took to complete, and that more signings are needed with just four days left of the window.

Michel-Ange Balikwisha could start late transfer activity

Michel-Ange Balikwisha, Royal Antwerp
Michel-Ange Balikwisha is now a Celtic player. (Credit: Imago)

Balikwisha is a welcome addition to Celtic, and even if he wasn't signed in time for the Champions League qualifiers, it would be good news for Rodgers if he can be available for the trip to Ibrox.

With Rangers' defensive vulnerabilities, Balikwisha could make an instant first impression with the Celtic support and further extend the Hoops' lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership.

Michel-Ange BalikwishaStats
Appearances145
Goals30
Assists17
Michel-Ange Balikwisha's stats at Royal Antwerp in all competitions.

Balikwisha's arrival could be the start of a flurry of last minute deals, with Adam Idah and Yang Hyun-Jun linked with the exit door.

Swansea want Idah, whilst Birmingham City have showed interest in Yang, meaning Rodgers would have to replace the pair before the window shuts.

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