O’Neill appears to mock Rangers as the Old Firm transfer race for a player heats up.

The race to sign Frosinone winger Fares Ghedjemis is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing transfer stories involving Scotland’s biggest rivals, with both Celtic and Rangers reportedly keeping a close eye on the highly rated attacker. As speculation surrounding the Algerian international continues to gather momentum, comments from Celtic manager Martin O’Neill have only intensified the spotlight on the developing situation.

Ghedjemis has attracted attention after enjoying an impressive campaign in Italy, where he played a significant role in Frosinone’s successful promotion push. His combination of pace, direct running and eye for goal has made him one of the more sought-after wide players available during the current transfer window, and it appears both Glasgow clubs believe he could strengthen their squads ahead of the new season.

Celtic’s interest has become increasingly clear following O’Neill’s latest remarks, with the manager openly acknowledging that the club is pursuing the winger. While managers often remain cautious when discussing transfer targets, O’Neill’s willingness to speak positively about the club’s progress has been interpreted by many as a sign of confidence that negotiations are moving in the right direction.

Those comments have naturally placed Rangers under additional pressure. Whenever both Old Firm clubs pursue the same player, every public statement is carefully examined by supporters looking for clues about which side may have the upper hand. O’Neill’s optimism has therefore added another layer to a transfer battle that was already attracting significant interest.

For Rangers, the situation is particularly important because strengthening the wide areas has been identified as one of the club’s priorities this summer. The squad is still evolving under Derek McInnes, and while several new faces have already arrived, there remains a widespread belief that additional attacking quality is required before the transfer window closes.

Ghedjemis appears to fit the profile Rangers are looking for. Still only 23 years old, he offers room for further development while already possessing valuable experience in European football. His performances for Frosinone demonstrated an ability to influence matches consistently, and his goal contribution during the promotion-winning campaign underlined his attacking threat.

His reported tally of 15 league goals from a wide position is especially eye-catching. Modern wingers are expected not only to create opportunities but also to score regularly, and Ghedjemis has shown that he can contribute in both areas. Those qualities inevitably make him an attractive option for clubs hoping to compete for major honours.

However, Rangers now face a familiar challenge whenever Celtic enter the race for the same player. The Parkhead club’s public confidence could encourage the player’s representatives to continue discussions with Celtic, while Rangers must decide whether to accelerate their own efforts or redirect their attention toward alternative targets.

Transfer windows often involve complex negotiations, and clubs rarely focus on only one option. Nevertheless, losing a player to a direct rival can carry greater significance than missing out on a transfer to another club. Beyond the footballing aspect, such outcomes can influence supporter perception and shape the narrative surrounding each club’s recruitment strategy.

McInnes has already made it clear that further additions are needed. Following Rangers’ opening Premiership fixture, the manager acknowledged that improvements remain necessary if the squad is to compete consistently throughout the campaign. His comments reflected a desire to continue strengthening rather than settling for the business already completed.

While Rangers have welcomed several new signings during the summer, assembling a successful squad involves more than simply increasing numbers. Balance across every position is equally important, and there are still questions regarding both the defensive unit and the attacking flanks.

The opening league match highlighted some of those concerns. Rangers showed encouraging moments but lacked consistent creativity in wide areas, making it difficult to stretch the opposition defence and create high-quality opportunities. That performance reinforced the belief among many supporters that another winger should remain a priority before the transfer deadline.

Defensive depth has also become a talking point. Injuries, suspensions and fixture congestion can quickly expose weaknesses within a squad, particularly during a long season that includes domestic and European commitments. Ensuring adequate competition across every position will therefore remain one of McInnes’ key objectives.

Against that backdrop, the pursuit of Ghedjemis takes on even greater importance. If Rangers genuinely view him as one of their preferred targets, decisive action may be required to prevent Celtic from gaining a clear advantage in negotiations. Waiting too long could increase the likelihood of the winger choosing the Scottish champions instead.

For Celtic, meanwhile, securing another talented attacking option would further strengthen an already competitive squad. Recruitment has remained a major focus throughout the summer, and adding a player with Ghedjemis’ profile could provide additional depth and flexibility across the forward line.

Ultimately, the final outcome will depend on several factors, including negotiations between the clubs, the player’s own preferences and the financial details of any potential agreement. Until a deal is completed, speculation is likely to continue from both sides of Glasgow.

As the transfer window progresses, supporters of both clubs will watch developments closely. Whether Ghedjemis eventually arrives at Celtic Park, Ibrox or remains in Italy, the battle for his signature has already become another fascinating chapter in the long-running rivalry between Scottish football’s two biggest clubs.