As the summer rages on, so too does Brendan Rodgers’ need to strengthen his Celtic squad for the new season.
New signings Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo have brought both quality and longevity between the sticks, but there are other areas which need improving.
A permanent deal for Paulo Bernardo is imminent with Celtic having agreed on a fee with Benfica for the midfielder, while the defence and attack still need to be looked at.
There have been several links to centre-halves throughout the summer while up top, talk of a move for Adam Idah has not let up.
Out wide, Michel-Ange Balikwisha has recently emerged as a potential option for the Hoops. Celtic was reported to be having talks with his club Royal Antwerp about a move this week.
The 23-year-old has stood out for his side since joining them from Standard Liege three years ago.
A talented wideman, Balikwisha is a goal threat and has experience in the Champions League.
Antwerp manager Jonas De Roeck has recently responded to speculation about a move to Glasgow for the Belgian, admitting that he is finding it difficult to plan ahead with uncertainty in the air.
“It’s not nice for a coach”, he said (Het Nieuwsblad via RecordSport).
“But (it’s) part of the game in today’s transfer system with a market that is open until early September.
“If I have to take that (transfer interest) into account now, then it is difficult to build something.
“It is human that some players could perform less due to uncertainty. But whether their future lies with Antwerp or elsewhere, I want to get those guys on board with my story, so that they are ready for when the matches with stakes come.”
We will likely hear more about Celtic’s pursuit of Balikwisha in the coming days. Rodgers already has several wingers available to him, but the Antwerp man would bring the quality and goal threat which few wide-men at Parkhead currently can.
