Fresh Twist in Celtic transfer chase for Ismaila Soro

Celtic are in hot pursuit of Ivory Coast midfielder Ismaila Soro, but now face stiff competition for his services from another club in pursuit.

Israeli-side Bnei Yehuda Tel Aviv midfielder Ismaila Soro had reportedly had a deal in place to make the move to Scottish Premiership League champions Celtic. That confirmation came directly from Bnei Yehuda Tel Aviv manager Elisha Levy, but now that is being called into question.

According to Sky Sports, the deal Elisha Levy mentioned is actually not in place. This is coming from sources close to Ismaila Soro. So, what is standing in the way?

Apparently the Hoops are now facing competition for the midfielder from Jupilier Pro League-side Genk. This new information now calls into question whether or not Celtic can get the deal that many reported was already done for the midfielder.

As Sky Sports pointed out in the very same article, Neil Lennon and the Hoops have had a knack at exploiting the Israeli market before:

"“Neil Lennon and Celtic have profited from the Israeli market before. He signed Beram Kayal, Nir Bitton and Efe Ambrose from clubs in Israel during his first spell.”"

Ismaila Soro appears to be the next one to make the move to Scotland, and his arrival would be happily welcomed. The Hoops’ midfield is banged up, and in much of the last six weeks, top players have not been performing to expectations.

Ismaila Soro would provide quality depth and cover to a struggling midfield unit. His arrival could potentially spark competition for first-team minutes, which in turn would put every player on notice.

However, before any of this is even possible, Celtic will need to outbid Genk in order to seal the deal. The Hoops can easily get their man, it is just a matter of how badly they want him.