Celtic are considering a January move for 19-year-old midfielder Abdoulaye Doumbia. The club's recruitment team is targeting the BK Häcken player to bolster their midfield options as they aim to maintain their position at the summit of the Premiership, where they have a record of nine wins, one draw, and two defeats from 12 games.
Their recent form of two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five matches includes a 3-2 win over Beşiktaş but also a 2-0 league defeat to Falkirk, a result that highlighted areas for reinforcement.
Doumbia under scrutiny
Abdoulaye Doumbia is primarily a defensive midfielder noted for his ball recovery and distribution. He joined BK Häcken from ASEC Mimosas in January 2026 and has since made 24 league appearances, starting 23 of them. This season in the Allsvenskan, he has scored two goals and provided three assists. His performances have been a key factor for Häcken, who are currently third in the Swedish top flight after 24 matches.
His progress has attracted attention from a host of European clubs. Celtic are among at least eleven sides, including Sunderland, Bayer Leverkusen, and Club Brugge, to have sent scouts to monitor him. Häcken sporting director Erik Friberg has acknowledged the broad interest but expressed a wish to keep the player for another 18 months to two years. Friberg stated.
Competing interest and contract
Doumbia’s contract with the Swedish club runs until 2030, a factor that complicates any potential transfer. He is estimated to be worth around £4.4 million. While there is significant monitoring, no confirmed bid or formal negotiations are currently underway for the teenager.
Interest from other clubs appears to be at a scouting stage. Everton manager David Moyes recently addressed his club's plans when asked about January activity. "No. At the moment, there’s no plans for January, no," Moyes said. This suggests Celtic may be considering a more immediate approach than some of their rivals. A source close to the situation indicated that while Häcken are reluctant sellers, a substantial offer in January could test their resolve.
Celtic continue to prioritise high-upside prospects as they look to maintain their league position. The squad, which has scored 27 goals and conceded 10 this season, will look to top scorer Camilo Duran, who has seven goals, for inspiration. The focus now shifts to the Kilmarnock fixture, where the midfield's performance will be watched closely amid the ongoing transfer speculation.
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