Celtic look to be losing ground in the pursuit of Norwegian winger Sondre Ørjasæter, with Dutch side PSV reportedly now in pole position to land the Sarpsborg talent.
The Hoops were first linked with Ørjasæter back in December, and talks were held in the months that followed.
However, the Hoops never struck a deal with Sarpsborg, who have stood firm on their valuation. The initial fee was believed to be around £7million, but according to TV Sport 2 in Norway, it could now take a bid in excess of £11million to prise him away from the Eliteserien side.
The 21-year-old has attracted attention after a standout 2023 campaign, playing every league game for Sarpsborg and scoring six times. He also featured regularly for Norway’s Under-21 side. This season, he’s chipped in with a goal and three assists in seven matches, despite missing time with a thigh injury. He’s now fully fit.
Interest in the winger has grown quickly. PSV have made a strong push for his signature and are said to be leading the chase. Ørjasæter is reportedly open to a move to the Netherlands, with the Eredivisie seen as a league that suits his playing style. French club Lille are also monitoring the situation.
Celtic have shown clear interest but may now face a tough decision. With PSV pressing ahead and Sarpsborg’s asking price rising, Brendan Rodgers will need to decide whether to meet the valuation or turn to other targets.
The winger fits the kind of profile Celtic are targeting for the wide areas, but with competition intensifying, the window for a deal may be closing fast.
