Celtic Told Transfer Target Has ‘Exit Plans’

Celtic are reportedly weighing up a move for Guingamp midfielder Kalidou Sidibe, with reports in France suggesting a £1.7 million bid may already be in play.

The 25-year-old is attracting interest after a strong season in Ligue 2, and Celtic appear to be among the clubs monitoring his situation closely.

The 6ft 6in midfielder has emerged as a standout performer in the French second tier, offering a physical presence that would bring something different to Brendan Rodgers’ midfield options. His profile fits the mould of players Celtic have targeted in recent windows, young, undervalued, and with room to grow.

Guingamp’s failure to win promotion back to Ligue 1 has opened the door for key departures, and Sidibe looks among the most likely to move on. While negotiations are believed to be at an early stage, sources in France claim initial discussions have taken place, and Celtic could look to move quickly if competition intensifies.

Club president Fred Le Grand has also hinted that a departure may be on the cards, noting that while the transfer market has been quiet, Sidibe is one of the few players who could leave in the coming weeks.

He said: (Le Télégramme), “The market is calm, it’s even very unusual. There are discussions, but nothing’s happening, nothing concrete, but Kalidou Sidibe has potential exit plans.”

Sidibe joined Guingamp from Toulouse in 2023 and has since established himself as a key figure in the heart of midfield. His combination of physicality and technical ability has made him a dependable performer, and at just 25, there’s potential for further development under the right guidance.

For Celtic, a move at the reported £1.7 million mark would represent a low-risk investment with potentially high upside. With the squad set for additions this summer, Sidibe could fill a gap that’s been clear for years.

Brendan Rodgers has spoken previously about the need to add different attributes to his side, and Sidibe’s stature and style could offer the kind of midfield steel that has been lacking, both domestically and in Europe.

The coming days will show whether Celtic decide to press ahead with a formal offer. With Guingamp open to a sale and the player seemingly ready for a step up, the door is open for a deal to be struck.