Celtic Reignite Interest In The Attacking Duo: What Should The Hoops Do? | OneFootball

In their recent X posts, transfer expert Sacha Tavolieri and Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph have shared updates on long-term Celtic targets Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Sondre Ørjasæter, respectively.

The Hoops are reportedly back in the hunt for the attacking pair, as they look to bolster their frontline in the summer window.

The Hoops had a bid of around £4.6m rejected for Ørjasæter late in the winter window. Sarpsborg, his current employers, set a valuation of £7m for the 21-year-old, and Celtic are now assessing whether to return with an improved offer.

The Norwegian youth international progressed through the academy ranks of Lyn, Korsvoll, and Stryn before breaking into the latter’s senior side in the fourth division. Sogndal secured his services ahead of the 2022 season, and after a couple of impressive years in the second tier, Sarspsborg snapped up Ørjasæter for €850k in January 2024.

HAMBURG, GERMANY – NOVEMBER 28: Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Arbnor Muja of Royal Antwerp look on before the UEFA Champions League match between Shakhtar Donetsk and Royal Antwerp at Volksparkstadion on November 28, 2023, in Hamburg, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

Balikwisha, on the other hand, has been on Celtic’s radar since last summer. But the 24-year-old former Belgium international missed months of action with a torn thigh muscle. He returned to full fitness in March and reclaimed his starting spot during Antwerp’s play-off outings. Yet he has shown his expertise with 4 goals and 3 assists in 10 appearances, thus alerting the Bhoys, who might aim for a cut-price deal, as his contract is set to expire next summer.

Why Celtic Should Opt For The Antwerp Ace

Like Ørjasæter, Balikwisha also prefers to operate from the left as an inverted winger. They can be effective from the right, but the Celts are primarily eyeing an alternative for Jota, who ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in April. The Portuguese forward might not return before next calendar year. Also, a failed loan with Olympiacos has further jeopardised Luis Palma’s revival hopes in Celtic colours.

Meanwhile, the Hoops are also eyeing a swoop for Nilson Angulo. The Ecuadorian enjoyed a breakthrough season in Belgium for Anderlecht, and it remains to be seen who Brendan Rodgers prioritises in due time. The experience and stats speak in favour of Balikwisha, unless the gaffer eyes a project signing over a proven player or tie down multiple names to add depth and quality upfront.