Celtic’s pursuit of Kasper Dolberg has taken another dramatic turn on deadline day, with reports in the Netherlands claiming Ajax have entered the race for the striker’s signature.

According to De Telegraaf, the Eredivisie giants have identified Dolberg as a prime target after edging closer to selling Brian Brobbey to Sunderland. With less than 12 hours left before the Scottish transfer window shuts at 11pm, Ajax are now moving feverishly to secure a replacement — and the former Johan Cruijff ArenA favourite has emerged as their top choice.

For Celtic, it’s a nightmare development. Brendan Rodgers has been pushing to bring the 27-year-old to Glasgow, but the competition is now fiercer than ever. Borussia Monchengladbach were already credited with “concrete” interest in Dolberg over the weekend, and Ajax’s re-entry into the picture may leave the Hoops fighting an uphill battle.

The timing could not be worse. Adam Idah is still in limbo, with a £7m move to Swansea agreed and waiting in the green light to sign his Swansea deal. If Dolberg slips through the net, will Celtic call the striker back?

Dolberg knows Ajax well, having scored 45 goals in 119 appearances for the Dutch side between 2016 and 2019. That history could play a decisive role, with Ajax keen to bring in a familiar face who fits seamlessly back into their system.

For Celtic, the stakes are immense. The board cannot afford to end deadline day empty-handed, But with Ajax now in the mix, the prospect of another late transfer shambles is very real.

Time is running out — and Celtic’s striker saga is now hanging by a thread.