Celtic are stepping up their efforts to strengthen their squad, with talks continuing over a move for Bodø/Glimt striker Kasper Høgh while the club also explores another ambitious transfer target ahead of the new season.
The Scottish champions are preparing for a demanding campaign as they aim to defend their Premiership crown against Rangers and Hearts while making a deeper run in the UEFA Champions League.
After last season exposed the need for more attacking quality, Celtic are eager to reinforce their forward line. Although Colombian striker Camilo Duran has already arrived from Qarabag, the club is actively pursuing several more additions to bolster Martin O’Neill’s squad.
Among the leading targets is SC Paderborn midfielder Mika Baur, though negotiations continue as both clubs work to bridge a gap in their valuations. Celtic are also pushing to sign Høgh after the Danish striker impressed with Bodø/Glimt in Europe last season. Other reported targets include AEK Athens defender James Penrice and Real Oviedo winger Haissem Hassan.
According to Italian journalist Lorenzo Canicchio, Lazio are willing to consider offers for a number of their players this summer, with Celtic showing interest in wingers Gustav Isaksen and Matteo Cancellieri.
Isaksen, valued at around €15 million (£13 million), is currently recovering from injury, but his asking price could reportedly be reduced. Interest in Cancellieri, however, is said to have cooled.
Signing Isaksen would represent a major statement of intent. The Danish international has earned six senior caps and has contributed 14 goals and 11 assists in over 100 appearances for Lazio, establishing himself as one of the Serie A club’s standout performers.
Meanwhile, confidence is growing that Celtic will secure Høgh’s signature. Sky Sports journalist Gianluca Di Marzio believes the Scottish champions are well placed to complete a deal for the prolific forward.
Høgh has built an outstanding reputation at Bodø/Glimt, scoring 54 goals and providing 22 assists in 103 appearances. His combination of finishing ability, creativity, and experience in the Champions League makes him an ideal candidate to lead Celtic’s attack.
With Daizen Maeda and Kelechi Iheanacho having departed this summer, the 25-year-old could become a key figure in Celtic’s rebuilt frontline as the club looks to compete strongly on both domestic and European fronts.
