Celtic are locked in negotiations with Belgian side Royal Antwerp for the transfer of winger Michel-Ange Balikwisha, with the player reportedly eager to make the move to Glasgow.

Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri reports that while the player is keen and a fee of £5.1 million has been established, Celtic’s “management” are dragging their heels on finalising the deal. Talks remain active, but it appears internal decision-making is slowing the process down. Something that won’t surprise Celtic fans. However, some may agree with the club over stalling to try and get the best deal possible for the plater.

Balikwisha, a versatile forward with creativity and end product, would add a significant edge to Celtic’s attacking arsenal. At just 24, he’s been on the radar of several clubs in Europe after an impressive season in the Jupiler Pro League.

This move would mark another step in a fast-moving transfer window for Celtic. The club have already brought back Kieran Tierney and Ross Doohan, both returning after spells away. Deals for Benji Nygren and Callum Osmand are also close, with Osmand’s move first reported by CeltsAreHere two weeks ago.

Brendan Rodgers is clearly looking to reshape his squad ahead of a pivotal season, with ambitions not only to dominate domestically but to make meaningful progress in Europe after getting to the knockout phase last term. Balikwisha’s addition could be a key part of that puzzle.

While Celtic fans would like to see this move wrapped up swiftly, Tavolieri’s update suggests it may not be a smooth finish unless Celtic’s hierarchy gets a move on. With competition for quality attacking players fierce across Europe, hesitation could prove costly.