Celtic appears set to part ways with forward Michel-Ange Balikwisha just one year after acquiring him from Royal Antwerp for £5 million. The Congolese international, who made limited impact during his time at Celtic Park, is attracting interest from several European clubs as his departure becomes increasingly likely.
Balikwisha managed only 14 appearances for Celtic since his arrival, with the majority coming as a substitute. Despite featuring in pre-season matches, he has been excluded from the squad for the opening two league matches, signaling manager Martin O’Neill’s lack of confidence in the 25-year-old’s future prospects at the club.
According to transfer reports, three clubs have expressed serious interest in signing the player. Italian Serie A side AC Monza, Swiss outfit FC Basel, and German Bundesliga newcomers SV Elversberg are all reportedly pursuing a deal for Balikwisha before the transfer window closes.
The timing of the exit news comes as O’Neill confirmed Balikwisha’s inclusion in Celtic’s 25-man squad for their upcoming Champions League playoff campaign against Austrian champions LASK. However, his imminent departure suggests this decision may become academic should the clubs reach an agreement on a transfer.
