Celtic Target Spotted Training After Mysterious Absence

Michel-Ange Balikwisha has been pictured back in training with Royal Antwerp after missing a session earlier this week during the club’s pre-season camp in Austria.

The 24-year-old’s brief absence didn’t go unnoticed, especially given the growing transfer speculation linking him with a move to Celtic.

Soccer Football – Champions League – Group H – Shakhtar Donetsk v Royal Antwerp – Volksparkstadion, Hamburg, Germany – November 28, 2023 Royal Antwerp’s Michel-Ange Balikwisha in action with Shakhtar Donetsk’s Valeriy Bondar REUTERS/Cathrin Mueller

While Antwerp officially put it down to a minor fitness issue, the timing has only added to the growing belief that a move could be in the works.

Celtic are believed to be preparing to step up their interest in the Belgian international, who is entering the final year of his contract. With that in mind, Antwerp may be open to cashing in rather than allowing him to leave for nothing next summer.

Balikwisha played a key role for Antwerp last season, impressing with his directness and attacking flair. His performances, both domestically and in Europe, have drawn interest from a number of clubs, but Celtic appear to be at the front of the queue.

Antwerp, Belgium. 17th May, 2025. Michel-Ange Balikwisha (10) of Antwerp pictured during the Jupiler Pro League season 2024 – 2025 matchday 9 of the Champions Play offs between Royal Antwerp FC and Royale Union Saint-Gilloise on May 17, 2025 in Antwerp, Belgium. (Photo by David Catry/Isosport/Content Curation/Sipa USA) Credit: Sipa US/Alamy Live News

Negotiations between the two clubs are ongoing, with Antwerp reportedly holding out for a fee around £5.1 million.

With Celtic seeking to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season, the situation remains one to watch closely.

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