Journalist Anthony Joseph has delivered a significant update on Celtic’s interest in Michel‑Ange Balikwisha. Initial talks are reported to have hit a stumbling block over a fee around £5.1 million.

Royal Antwerp have faced some resistance at that valuation, with reports now suggesting they may be ready to reduce their demand to approximately £4.6 million.

Celtic, as Joseph notes, have been tracking the Belgian forward for some time, though they are also assessing alternatives. The club will want to be confident that Balikwisha represents value for money before making a substantial outlay in this summer’s transfer window.

The 24‑year‑old’s desire to move on is viewed as a key factor in the negotiations. Should the Hoops accept Antwerp’s new price, it’s believed securing personal terms would proceed without difficulty.

Any deal would provide a welcome boost to Brendan Rodgers’ attacking options, adding youthful energy and versatility to a side looking to maintain dominance domestically and make progress in Europe.

He said: (Off The Underside), “Balikwisha is someone they’ve been monitoring for quite a while.

“I think they’re also just looking at what other options are out there and weighing up whether Balikwisha is the guy to make a potential £5m outlay on.

“From what I’ve heard, the indications are that Balikwisha would like to join Celtic. If Celtic can get a deal over the line with Royal Antwerp, then I think personal terms and sorting out a contract for Balikwisha will be quite easy work for them.”

Brendan Rodgers will be weighing up the strengths Balikwisha could bring: pace, directness, and a keen eye for goal. In a league where cutting edge can determine titles, a new attacking spark could make a real difference across competitions.

Financially, dropping the asking price to £4.6 million would strengthen the case for the move. It falls within a sensible budget for a player of his potential and leaves room for add‑ons or bonuses based on performances.

For Antwerp, reducing their demand might reflect a desire to balance the books or make room for incoming talent. It also shows willingness to negotiate in order to facilitate the player’s move.

From Celtic’s perspective, securing a player who is both ambitious and open to the move offers a smoother process. With the heavy lifting on the personal side likely straightforward, attention will focus on finalising the deal, medical reports, and any sell‑on clauses.

If the Hoops conclude this transfer before the window closes, it would underline their intent to sharpen the squad ready for a campaign where every fine margin matters.