Once again, Celtic have left things to be done for the last minute in the summer transfer window. This has not been a rare occurrence for the Hoops over the years, except for a brief spell of efficiency and swiftness shown during Ange Postecoglou's run as manager. Even last year, they signed Arne Engels, Luke McCowan and Auston Trusty on deadline day. Do not be surprised if something similar ends up happening this time around as well.
Celtic should have been more active in getting things done this summer, especially because of the UEFA Champions League qualifier play-off tie that they knew they would be dealing with. The Scottish champions have not been handed an automatic spot in the group phase of the competition, like the previous three seasons.
It is what it is though. Perhaps this has always been the plan, to see if Brendan Rodgers' side can make it through to the competition before deciding on targets.
But at the very least, a winger should have been signed following the big-money departure of Nicolas Kuhn to Como FC. Now, there is an update on the situation on one player they have been constantly linked with this summer, Michel-Ange Balikwisha.
£5m player very keen on joining Celtic and tipped for deadline day move
As reported by 67 Hail Hail, David Friel told The Scottish Sun Sport podcast:
"I spoke to someone in Belgium who covers Antwerp who doesn’t think it’s at that stage but wasn’t ruling it out, if you know what I mean.
“He still felt there was a distance between valuations and that can obviously change quickly."
Firle is not ruling out the possibility of a late move taking place though as he added:
"I’m led to believe the player is very, very keen to come to Celtic. I’ve just got a funny feeling come the end of the window, and it might be the final day that Balikwisha will be at Celtic."
Let's see how things play out from here. It is very important that Celtic do get some deals done in time. The issue is, time is quickly running out. And for some reason, they have been very reluctant to agree on fees with clubs all throughout this transfer window. Let's wait and watch if that changes soon.