Celtic-linked Michel-Ange Balikwisha clearly isn’t letting transfer interest distract him, finding the net in Antwerp’s 2-0 friendly win over Willem II on Saturday.
It follows confirmation from Antwerp boss Stef Wils that the winger could be on the move this summer. The 24-year-old has been a long-standing target for Celtic, with interest from Glasgow persisting across multiple transfer windows.
Balikwisha’s contract with Antwerp is due to expire next summer, and with the Belgian club under pressure to raise funds, the likelihood of a deal being struck before the window closes has increased significantly.
Michel-Ange Balikwisha a inscrit un but aujourd’hui lors du match amical face à Willem II. 🔥🔥
Le championnat belge reprendra le 25 juillet, avec un choc entre l’Antwerp et l’Union Saint-Gilloise ! pic.twitter.com/PUObYyb2e4
— Nosko (@Nosko_mrss) July 19, 2025
Wils added further weight to the transfer speculation, admitting a sale could happen if the right offer arrives.
The winger missed part of Antwerp’s pre-season camp in Austria due to what the club described as minor “preparation ailments”, but his goal-scoring return at the weekend indicates he’s back fully fit.
Balikwisha’s versatility and European pedigree make him an appealing option for Brendan Rodgers as the Celtic boss continues to reshape his squad.
With Daizen Maeda occasionally deputising centrally and the departure of Nicolas Kuhn, the need for a natural wide player has only grown more apparent.
As talks reportedly progress, this one is worth watching closely.
