Celtic’s pursuit of Mathias Kvistgaarden has entered an important period, with the Danish striker now commanding a reported £12 million price tag after a breakout season at Brondby. The 23-year-old has become one of the most sought-after talents in Scandinavia, and the Hoops are battling rising interest from clubs across Europe.

The striker netted 23 goals in 38 games last season, a tally that’s not only earned him a call-up to the Denmark national team but pushed his club to the brink of a record transfer windfall. Celtic first made moves for Kvistgaarden last summer, but the initial £9 million asking price was deemed too steep. Now, that valuation has climbed—and with good reason.

Kvistgaarden’s growth has been steady rather than explosive, but his all-round game has developed dramatically. With Kyogo having left for Rennes and Adam Idah’s failing to step up consistently, the Hoops are in the market for a top-quality striker. Brendan Rodgers and the recruitment team are now weighing whether to make a bold move that could define their summer window.

The forward’s path hasn’t been without its complications. Early in his career, he was once accidentally substituted after his number was mistakenly shown by Brondby boss Niels Fredericksen. It may have been a sign of how overlooked he was back then, but few in Denmark are missing his impact now.

“It was a big surprise for me. Kvistgaarden did significantly better than I would have dared to hope for. It was of course nice and fantastic, but that’s what he has done. In the playoffs he proved to be our sharpest striker and will probably end up as our top scorer.

“I didn’t see it coming, but hats off to Kvistgaarden. He’s taken the Superliga by storm. He works really hard and is a tough striker to play against defenders.

“He has good finishing skills and a good head game, and we actually knew that. But he’s taken the step very quickly and he’s done it well. It’s great.”

Celtic fans have heard Kvistgaarden’s name linked for over two years and there’s growing hope the club will finally get their man. With international team-mate Kasper Schmeichel at Celtic Park, and Matt O’Riley also in the Denmark fold, there are quiet whispers that internal nudges could help steer the move over the line.

The only sticking point remains the fee. Celtic are no strangers to big-money deals but will need to weigh up whether Kvistgaarden’s value can translate to goals at Paradise. The club’s recent record in the transfer market has been hit and miss—and this one could define the summer.

But if Celtic are serious about adding a goal scorer ready to lead the line, Kvistgaarden’s name remains at the very top of the list. Now it’s up to the board to match that ambition with action.