Celtic have officially accepted defeat in their attempt to sign Kasper Dolberg, with former club Ajax now advancing in talks to bring the Danish striker back to Amsterdam.
The Hoops had identified Dolberg as their top striker target ahead of Monday night’s deadline, holding negotiations with Anderlecht and tabling an offer believed to be around €8 million. But the Belgian side were holding out for closer to €12 million, and Celtic’s valuation fell short.
While hopes were briefly raised earlier today, Dolberg was reportedly more attracted to a return to his old club — and it now appears that Ajax have won the race for his signature. The Eredivisie side moved quickly once it became clear Dolberg would not be joining Celtic, and the 27-year-old is closing in on a move.
It’s a significant blow for Celtic, who now find themselves scrambling for an alternative centre-forward option before the 11 pm deadline.
UPDATE: Ajax are advancing over a deal for Anderlecht striker Kasper Dolberg.
Clubs were initially far apart on structure of a £10m deal, but #AFCAjax are hopeful of providing more money up-front if their outgoings go through.
Celtic have accepted defeat on Dolberg & moving on. https://t.co/nc01B3gvtG pic.twitter.com/Ob2baoYWLG
— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) September 1, 2025
With Adam Idah confirmed to have joined Swansea City permanently, Brendan Rodgers is short of firepower up top, with only Shin Yamada and Johnny Kenny currently available, with Callum Osmand not seeming to be in the first team plans.
Celtic have made a late move for Chelsea striker David Datro Fofana, but with the clock ticking, fans are growing anxious about whether the necessary reinforcements will arrive in time.
Losing out on Dolberg is yet another frustrating chapter in what has been a turbulent transfer window for the Scottish champions.
