Sarpsborg Sporting Director Responds to Celtic’s Sondre Ørjasæter Bid

Celtic have officially submitted an opening bid for Sarpsborg winger Sondre Ørjasæter as the Scottish champions aim to bolster their attacking options this window.

The Hoops have been tracking the Norway U21 international since December, with the 21-year-old catching the eye after an impressive season in the Eliteserien.

Ørjasæter, who has two years left on his current contract, has attracted interest from clubs in France and Italy. However, Celtic are looking to get ahead of the competition as they attempt to bring the talented winger to Parkhead.

Sarpsborg’s sporting director, Hampus Andersson, has acknowledged the bid but made it clear the Norwegian side are determined to hold onto their prized asset until at least the summer.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, Andersson said: “Sondre is and has been a highly valued player for us.

“Our main goal is to not sell him this window and keep him for at least to the end of the season.”

Celtic have already confirmed the sensational return of former fan favourite Jota, who re-signed with the club 18 months after his £25m move to the Saudi Pro League. The Portuguese winger’s return bolsters Brendan Rodgers’ attacking options and raises questions about the future of Luis Palma.

The Honduran winger has struggled for consistent minutes and has been linked with a move to La Liga side Rayo Vallecano, although a proposed loan deal recently collapsed due to FIFA restrictions.

Brendan Rodgers appears intent on strengthening Celtic’s wide areas as the team looks to compete on multiple fronts in the second half of the season. Ørjasæter’s potential arrival would provide another young, dynamic option on the flanks, complementing Jota, Daizen Maeda, and Nicolas Kuhn, with Yang also vying for a place.

However, with Sarpsborg reluctant to sell mid-season, Celtic may need to increase their bid to tempt the Norwegian side into parting ways with their rising star or wait until the summer.