Celtic’s chase for Kasper Dolberg looks to be over on deadline day, with respected journalist Sacha Tavolieri reporting that Ajax are closing in on a deal to bring the striker back to Amsterdam.

Tavolieri revealed that the Dutch giants are now confident of finalising an agreement with Anderlecht. Talks are said to be advanced over a loan move that includes a mandatory purchase option worth around €10 million (£8.5m). The deal does not include bonuses and would see Dolberg return to the Johan Cruijff ArenA, where he previously scored 45 goals in 119 appearances.

It’s a bitter blow for Celtic, who had been pushing hardest to land the Danish international and had made him their top attacking target. The Hoops saw Dolberg as the solution to their striking problems, with Adam Idah’s proposed £7m switch to Swansea City left hanging on the condition of Celtic finding a replacement.

But with Ajax now stepping in decisively, Celtic’s hopes appear to be finished. Time is running out fast — with less than 8 hours before the Scottish transfer window shuts at 11pm — and Brendan Rodgers’ side are now staring down the prospect of perhaps their worst ever transfer window performance.

Supporters will rightly feel exasperated. Once again, the board appear to have left themselves exposed on the final day of trading, scrambling for options while rivals move with clarity and conviction. Dolberg, a proven international forward with 24 goals last season, could have been a good signing. Instead, he looks destined to rekindle his career at Ajax.

For Celtic, the question is what comes next. Idah may now have to remain at Parkhead by default, with the club running out of time to salvage a striker signing before the shutters come down. Another deadline day shambles is looming large.