After the failed attempt to bring back Kyogo Furuhashi, we have seen Celtic being linked with a whole host of strikers in quick succession. It is pretty clear that this is an area of focus for the club during this January transfer window, and understandably so. They do not have a reliable goalscorer up top at the moment.
Benjamin Nygren is the club's top goalscorer this season, despite playing as part of the midfield three most of the time and being heavily criticised for his poor finishing. On the one hand, that can be viewed as a positive. On the other hand, it is a sign that a quality striker needs to be signed as soon as possible.
This need for a striker was present in the summer as well. On deadline day, Celtic had tried to sign David Datro Fofana from Chelsea, but he turned down the move in favour of a loan to Sheffield United. That collapsed at the last minute, and ultimately, he ended up at Fatih Karagumruk.
Now, Fofana is believed to be back on Celtic's radar, who are exploring a move for the striker once again despite the summer rejection. At the same time, Chelsea would be open to a permanent switch or loaning him out domestically to reduce one of their international loan spots.
Chelsea's David Datro Fofana will join Celtic on one condition
Of course, Fofana has turned down a move to Celtic once again. So, what would the Hoops need to provide him with in order to convince him.
While speaking to Rudy Galetti, Fofana was asked whether he was looking for stability, playing time, or the right project at this point. The striker said:
"A mix of all three. I want a project where trust, playing time, and ambition align. That’s where a player can truly express himself and grow."
Will Celtic be able to provide Fofana with that kind of project? The fact that they are considering the move again despite the summer failure is a sign of trust in the player in and of itself. And if he can score consistently, playing time won't be tough to come by either. It is the ambition of the club that many are questioning at the moment.
The fact that half the winter window is gone without bringing in a striker, despite the pressing need for one, is a worrying sign for sure. And arguably a sign of the club's lack of ambition.