Jakob Breum Shows Celtic What They’re Missing at Ibrox

By
Michael Shearer
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Jakob Breum
2T5DCKX DEVENTER - Jakob Breum of Go Ahead Eagles during the Dutch Eredivisie match between Go Ahead Eagles and Vitesse in De Adelaarshorst on November 4, 2023 in Deventer, Netherlands. ANP JEROEN PUTMANS

Jakob Breum gave Celtic another look at what they may have missed with a strong display for Saint-Étienne at Ibrox on Wednesday night.

The Danish attacker scored the French side’s equaliser in their 2-1 friendly defeat to Rangers, reacting quickly inside the box and forcing the ball over the line shortly before half-time.

It was not the most eye-catching goal he will ever score, but his overall performance stood out. Breum was comfortable on the ball, found space in dangerous areas and caused Rangers problems with his movement and direct running.

Jakob Breum

The Hoops tried to sign Breum from Go Ahead Eagles last summer, but the two clubs could not agree on a fee. Celtic’s first offer was reported to be around £1.5 million, while the Dutch club wanted much more.

Talks continued, but no deal was reached and Celtic eventually turned their attention elsewhere.

Breum stayed in the Netherlands for another season before Saint-Étienne moved to sign him earlier this month. The 22-year-old agreed a deal until 2030 and was handed the number 10 shirt.


Reports suggested the fee was just over €3 million.

That price will only add to the frustration for some Celtic supporters, especially after the club struggled to add enough pace and creativity to the squad last season.

Jakob Breum
2T5DCKX DEVENTER – Jakob Breum of Go Ahead Eagles during the Dutch Eredivisie match between Go Ahead Eagles and Vitesse in De Adelaarshorst on November 4, 2023 in Deventer, Netherlands. ANP JEROEN PUTMANS

Breum would not have fixed every issue on his own, but his display at Ibrox showed the type of qualities Celtic have often lacked. He was brave in possession, carried the ball well and was willing to take responsibility in the final third.

Martin O’Neill still wants to improve his attacking options before the transfer window closes, with more speed and quality out wide still needed.

Breum is no longer available, and one good friendly performance does not prove Celtic made a major mistake.

Still, watching a former target score and play well against Rangers only weeks after joining Saint-Étienne for a reported fee within Celtic’s usual price range was hard to ignore.