Celtic are always on the lookout for emerging talents. Just this summer, they signed Arne Engels for a club-record transfer fee. Now, one could argue that the move has not worked out and the Belgian midfielder has not shown anything extraordinary to his game yet. But then, it is important to give him time to find his feet at Parkhead. And also, one can see the Hoops' intent and ambition behind the signing, no matter how it turns out.
There are several other highly-rated youngsters Celtic have been linked with. One of them is Bazoumana Toure.
The Ivorian winger has enjoyed a meteoric rise since joining Hammarby earlier in 2024. According to stats from Transfermarkt, the 18-year-old has scored 9 goals and provided 4 assists in 23 appearances for the club until now.
But the Hoops have been handed a blow in the race to sign the winger. As reported by Glasgow World, Brighton & Hove Albion are currently leading Celtic in the pursuit of Toure, according to Alan Nixon on his Patreon.
Brighton & Hove Albion hand Celtic £11m transfer blow
Someone like Toure would fit the profile of player that Celtic look for. But the same can be said about Brighton & Hove Albion as well.
The Seagulls have a brilliant record in recent years when it comes to identifying, signing and developing the right players. Several have moved on to play for the best teams in Europe and beyond.
That being said, it might be easier for Toure to get opportunities at Celtic than it would be at Brighton & Hove Albion. The Hoops are believed to be on the lookout for a winger and have also been linked with Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Jota recently. On the other hand, Luis Palma could be set to leave the club after struggling for playing time.