Celtic have completed the signing of Michel-Ange Balikwisha from Royal Antwerp, with the Belgian winger penning a five-year contract at Parkhead.
The 24-year-old underwent his medical in London earlier this week before the deal was finalised tonight.
It brings to an end a long-running transfer pursuit that was first reported at the beginning of the summer but stalled due to complications at Antwerp. Brendan Rodgers has now secured the versatile forward he was desperate to add before the window closes.
Balikwisha arrives with solid pedigree. He played a key role in Antwerp’s title-winning season in 2022–23, also scoring in the Belgian Super Cup final last year.
✍️ 🇧🇪 Celtic Football Club is delighted to announce that Michel-Ange Balikwisha has joined the club on a five-year deal from Royal Antwerp, subject to international clearance.
Welcome to Celtic, Michel-Ange!#WelcomeBalikwisha | #CelticFC🍀
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) August 28, 2025
He has Champions League experience too, having found the net in a group-stage clash against Shakhtar Donetsk. His ability to operate on either wing, and even through the middle, makes him a valuable addition to Celtic’s attacking options.
Celtic’s need for reinforcements in forward areas has been obvious. Injuries and inconsistency have disrupted Rodgers’ plans, while the club’s Champions League exit only intensified the demand for fresh blood.
The Irishman now has another option to bring pace, direct running and goal threat to the frontline.
The timing of the move is also significant. With the transfer deadline days away, Celtic had been under pressure to deliver a statement signing. Balikwisha fits the bill, arriving in his prime years and with a hunger to establish himself outside Belgium for the first time in his career.
