Celtic have reignited their pursuit of Algeria international Fares Ghedjemis, with manager Martin O'Neill saying the 23‑year‑old is back on the club’s wish list as Rangers also show interest. The winger, who netted 15 goals in Serie B for Frosinone, was previously linked with a January move that fell through, but the £8 million target is now again in the spotlight.
What sparked the renewed interest?
O'Neill told reporters that Celtic’s scouting department has kept tabs on Ghedjemis despite the earlier collapse of talks. "I don’t know whether Rangers are trying to sign him, but we have a very strong interest in him," the manager said, hinting at a competitive chase. The club’s recent form – 3rd in the Premiership with 67 points and a five‑game winning streak – has fuelled the desire to add firepower to the attack.
How does Ghedjemis fit Celtic’s needs?
The Algerian winger’s 15‑goal haul last season demonstrates the kind of goal‑scoring threat Celtic lack after a season that saw them score 59 and concede 35, a +24 goal difference. With the team sitting three points behind leaders Heart of Midlothian, O'Neill is looking to bolster the flanks, especially as left‑back options narrow after Marcelo Saracchi’s loan ends. Adding Ghedjemis could also relieve pressure on Kieran Tierney, who remains the first‑choice left‑back.
What are the obstacles?
Rangers’ interest adds a layer of complexity; the Glasgow rivals are also targeting wingers, and any bid from them could push the price higher. Celtic must also navigate Frosinone’s valuation of £8 million, a figure that reflects the player’s age and recent performances. O'Neill admitted the club is "making good progress" but stopped short of confirming how close a deal is.
What comes next for Celtic?
The next fixture – a home clash with Motherwell on 26 December 2026 – offers a chance for O'Neill to test any new signing in a competitive environment. Meanwhile, the club continues to monitor other targets, including Egypt World Cup star Haissem Hassan from Real Oviedo. If Ghedjemis joins, he could be a key piece in Celtic’s push to close the three‑point gap and reclaim the title.
Contextual snapshot
Celtic finished the 2025 season in third place with 67 points from 33 games, boasting a record of 21 wins, 4 draws, and 8 losses, and a recent run of five straight wins. Their goal tally stands at 59 scored and 35 conceded, leaving them three points behind league leaders Heart of Midlothian as the new season looms.
