Report: Celtic ‘Still in the Fight’ for Michel-Ange Balikwisha

Celtic are reportedly still pushing to sign Michel-Ange Balikwisha, but talks have yet to move forward.

Scott Burns of Record Sport reports the Hoops remain interested in bringing the Royal Antwerp winger to Glasgow. Negotiations have been slow, and there’s still no agreement in place.

Michel Ange Balikwisha
Soccer Football – Champions League – Group H – FC Porto v Royal Antwerp – Estadio do Dragao, Porto, Portugal – November 7, 2023 Royal Antwerp’s Michel-Ange Balikwisha in action with FC Porto’s Diogo Costa REUTERS/Pedro Nunes

Balikwisha’s agent, Jibril Rekkab, confirmed there hasn’t been formal contact between the clubs. However, he did say the player would be open to the move if Celtic make a serious approach.

Antwerp had initially asked for around £5.1 million, a figure believed to have held things up. But they’re now reportedly willing to drop the price to about £4.6 million, which could help push a deal through.

With his contract running down, Antwerp are under pressure to cash in. Celtic now have to decide whether to meet the revised fee or look elsewhere before the window closes.

Burns said: “Celtic are still very much in the fight for Michel-Ange Balikwisha.

“The agent has said there hasn’t been contact but there have been discussions between the clubs. Antwerp also know the player wants to move to Scotland.

“It is now to see what is the best deal they can get for him as his contract runs down.

“There were reports that Celtic have had a £1.5 million bid for Danish winger Jakob Breum from Go Ahead Eagles turned down. Danish sources have dismissed that and claimed Celtic’s interest hasn’t been renewed.”

Balikwisha’s ability to play wide and bring speed into attack has made him a clear target. With Antwerp not wanting to lose him for nothing, they could now be more open to lowering the asking price.

Gent, Belgium. 11th May, 2025. Antwerp’s Michel Ange Balikwisha pictured as he arrives at the stadium before a soccer match between KAA Gent and Royal Antwerp FC, Sunday 11 May 2025 in Gent, on day 8 (out of 10) of the Champions’ Play-offs of the 2024-2025 ‘Jupiler Pro League’ first division of the Belgian championship. BELGA PHOTO TOM GOYVAERTS Credit: Belga News Agency/Alamy Live News

Celtic now have a decision to make, pay close to the revised fee or move on to other options. If they choose to go ahead, talks could progress quickly from here.

With interest in Breum fading, Balikwisha remains the main focus for now, unless a new name enters the frame.

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