Celtic have officially confirmed the signing of Tunisian international Sebastian Tounekti on a five-year deal. It’s a move that arrives just moments after the close of the transfer window, and one that feels, to many supporters, like too little, too late.
The 23-year-old winger joins from Hammarby after a protracted transfer saga that saw three bids rejected before a final £5.5 million offer was accepted late on deadline day. Despite Hammarby’s initial insistence that he would not be sold, the Swedish side relented at the eleventh hour, allowing the move to go through.
Tounekti becomes Celtic’s 10th signing of the summer window, but the sense among fans and pundits is one of frustration. With Champions League qualification already gone and glaring gaps still apparent in Brendan Rodgers’ squad – particularly up front – the winger’s arrival, while welcome, doesn’t address the most pressing concerns.
Celtic’s inability to land a striker before the window slammed shut, despite strong interest in Kasper Dolberg, David Datro Fofana and Kelechi Iheanacho, has left the club vulnerable. Adam Idah left the club on deadline day with no replacement.
Iheanacho may still sign for the Hoops, now a free agent.
Celtic left it far too late, and now head into a crucial stretch of the season, including European football and domestic competition, still scrambling for cohesion and cutting edge.
The Europa League squad registration deadline looms on Tuesday, and fans will be hoping Tounekti – and possibly one more addition – can be added before then.
