Celtic Eyeing January Swoop for £7.5m Wizard Michel-Ange Balikwisha
Celtic FC are reportedly considering a January move for Royal Antwerp winger Michel-Ange Balikwisha, who is valued at £7.5 million. This potential signing would mirror the success of Nicolas Kuhn, who joined the Hoops in January 2024 and has since become a key player.
Kuhn’s impressive start to the 2024/25 campaign, with 10 goals and 11 assists in 17 appearances, demonstrates the effectiveness of Celtic’s mid-season recruitment strategy. The German forward’s adaptation period last season has paid dividends, making him the star of the show following Matt O’Riley’s Premier League departure.
Similarly, Celtic believe that signing Balikwisha in January would allow him to settle into the Scottish Premiership, replicating Kuhn’s successful integration. The 23-year-old Belgian winger has been sidelined with an injury since August but is reportedly eager to leave Antwerp in January.
Balikwisha’s 2023/24 Pro League statistics showcase his potential:
- Starts: 27
- Goals: 7
- Big chances created: 6
- Assists: 5
- Tackles + interceptions per game: 3.1
These numbers suggest that Balikwisha could be an upgrade on Daizen Maeda, who managed six goals and three assists in the Premiership last term.
U23 scout Antonio Mango has praised Balikwisha as one of several “incredible” young talents. Celtic’s interest in the winger was initially reported in the summer, but an injury stalled negotiations.
With Balikwisha available for £7.5 million, Celtic have the opportunity to secure a talented player and potentially develop him into a key contributor.
Key Points:
- Celtic considering January move for Michel-Ange Balikwisha
- £7.5 million valuation for Royal Antwerp winger
- Balikwisha’s injury has limited his 2024/25 appearances
- Celtic’s mid-season recruitment strategy proved successful with Nicolas Kuhn
- Balikwisha’s Pro League statistics indicate potential for growth
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