Celtic’s hunt for a striker is going to be one of the main storylines this January.
With Johnny Kenny struggling in leading the line for the Hoops in Wilfried Nancy’s last two games, the need for a reliable goalscorer is apparent.
Wessam Abou Ali, Diego Rossi and Evan Ferguson have all been linked, but a new name entered the conversation on Boxing Day.
Ibrahim Diabate, of GAIS is the reigning top-scorer of the Swedish top-flight, and was linked with a move to Parkhead this week.
With plenty of other names in the mix, Swedish sources have now given clarity on the rumour.
Update on Celtic’s links with Ibrahim Diabate
The 26-year-old was playing his first season in the top Swedish division this season, and his club managed an unexpected fourth-placed finish.
The 6ft 1in striker is now expected to leave in the winter window.
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Celtic is an obvious link, given how desperately the team needs a more prolific striker – but how much truth is there in the rumours?
According to the Daily Record, Swedish sources have played that interest down, saying that GAIS have had no contact from Celtic, directly or indirectly.
So we might have to park that rumour for now.
Celtic have been told to go for Kieron Bowie, after the Hibs striker scored in the weekend’s Edinburgh Derby against Hearts at Easter Road.
The Scotland international wouldn’t come cheap, and is also reportedly drawing interest from Wolves.
Looking at other positions, Julian Araujo is of interest to Celtic, with the Mexican wing-back available on loan from Bournemouth this winter.
The rumour mill is now firmly underway, with 2026 marching towards us.
Should Celtic sign Kieron Bowie from Hibernian in January?
Wilfried Nancy’s transfer priorities at Celtic
Speaking after Saturday’s 4-2 win over Livingston, Nancy discussed the attributes he prioritises when signing players.
The Hoops boss said: “For me personality is key. We have a lot of ability in terms of the way we play.
“But it is important when you sign players that they need to have that personality.
“This is a big club. To play here is not always easy. So it is so important to have players who can play here at a club like this.
“When I talk about personalities, it’s not only about being vocal either. It’s about having the right attitude when things are difficult.
“This means when we attack, can we keep showing ourselves for each other, can we still press or can we defend like crazy in the moment?
“It’s more about the attitude for me. This is what I am looking for.”
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