Celtic target €7m-plus winger with 13 goal contributions ahead of January exit

Celtic are reportedly stepping up their interest in a winger valued at more than €7 million as they look to strengthen their attacking options before the January transfer window closes. The player in question is understood to be leaving his current club this month, with the Hoops among several sides monitoring his situation closely.

The Scottish champions are eager to add more firepower to their squad as they attempt to close the gap at the top of the Premiership and remain competitive on the European stage. Manager Martin O’Neill is believed to be keen on bringing in a wide attacker who can offer both goals and creativity, and the 26-year-old winger has emerged as a leading candidate.

The attacker, who has registered 13 goal contributions this season, is enjoying a productive campaign that has attracted interest from across Europe. His tally includes a combination of goals and assists, highlighting his ability to influence games in the final third. That level of output, coupled with his age and experience, has made him a standout target during the winter window.

Reports suggest his current club are prepared to sanction a sale before the end of the month, but only for the right price. A fee in excess of €7 million is said to be required to tempt them into doing business, reflecting the winger’s importance and consistent performances over the past two seasons. Celtic are understood to be weighing up whether to meet that valuation as they assess their budget and priorities.

While naturally right-footed, the winger has often been deployed on the left side of the attack, where he likes to cut inside and create chances or get shots away. However, his versatility is one of his biggest strengths. He is comfortable operating on either flank and can also be used through the middle if required, offering tactical flexibility that appeals to O’Neill.

Celtic have already been active in the transfer market, reinforcing their defensive options earlier in the window. However, the focus is now firmly on the attacking department, with the club keen to provide O’Neill with more depth and quality as the fixture schedule intensifies. Injuries and inconsistency in forward areas have underlined the need for reinforcements, particularly a player capable of making an immediate impact.

Competition for the winger’s signature is expected to be strong. Several clubs from England and mainland Europe are also believed to be tracking him, meaning Celtic may need to act decisively if they are serious about securing a deal. European football at Parkhead and the chance to compete regularly for silverware could work in the Hoops’ favour, especially if the player is keen on a new challenge.

🚨 Exclusive: Philip Otele set to leave Basel this winter.

Understand Basel have reduced their asking price and will consider offers in excess of €7m.

Birmingham City remain interested. Wolves also have Otele as one of several names on their list.

Lazio, Celtic and… pic.twitter.com/SPGEp97WSY

— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) January 14, 2026

From Celtic’s perspective, adding a proven wide forward could be crucial to their title ambitions. After falling behind in the early part of the season, the club remains confident that the gap at the top can be closed with the right additions. A winger with double-digit goal involvement would not only increase competition for places but also help ease the attacking burden on the squad’s existing forwards.

The player’s situation appears to be moving quickly, with his current club open to negotiations and a January exit increasingly likely. Celtic’s recruitment team are said to be closely analysing whether the deal represents value for money, particularly given the significant fee involved. However, there is a growing belief that investing in quality now could pay dividends in the second half of the campaign.

As the transfer window enters its final weeks, Celtic are expected to continue exploring multiple options. While no deal has been agreed at this stage, the interest in the €7m-plus winger underlines the club’s intent to strengthen in key areas. If Celtic can fend off rival suitors and reach an agreement, the signing could prove to be a major boost as they push for domestic success and aim to make their mark in Europe.