Deal Agreed: Balikwisha Set to Join Celtic

Respected journalist Sacha Tavolieri has revealed that after a decisive meeting with Celtic officials, Balikwisha has been convinced by the club’s project and has agreed in principle to move to Glasgow.

The Belgian-Congolese attacker, who currently plays for Royal Antwerp, is said to have reached an agreement on personal terms, with the transfer now expected to be completed in the coming days.

It’s the update Celtic fans have been waiting on after weeks of speculation and frustration. Balikwisha’s name has been tied to the Hoops all summer, but the move stalled multiple times due to complications around his situation in Belgium. Now, however, the 24-year-old has reportedly given the green light.

For Brendan Rodgers, it represents a significant breakthrough. Celtic have been crying out for attacking reinforcements ahead of a critical season domestically and in Europe, and Balikwisha’s pace and direct style make him a natural fit for the wide areas.

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

Rodgers has consistently pushed for additions in forward positions, and this deal could be the statement signing supporters have demanded.

Balikwisha has already built a strong reputation in the Jupiler Pro League, playing a key role in Antwerp’s rise and delivering both goals and creativity from the wing. His decision to commit to Celtic suggests he sees the Scottish champions as the right platform to progress his career further.

Michel Ange Balikwisha
Soccer Football – Champions League – Group H – FC Porto v Royal Antwerp – Estadio do Dragao, Porto, Portugal – November 7, 2023 Royal Antwerp’s Michel-Ange Balikwisha in action with FC Porto’s Diogo Costa REUTERS/Pedro Nunes

The timing is vital. With less than two weeks remaining before the transfer window shuts, Celtic moving decisively to tie up a major target sends an important message. While the final paperwork and medical are still to come, the signs point towards this long-running saga finally reaching its conclusion — and in Celtic’s favour.

Tonight’s news from Belgium is the clearest indication yet that Michel Ange Balikwisha will soon be wearing the green and white.

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