£3m Celtic Transfer Claim Emerges As Hibs Star Pushes For Move: Should The Hoops Agree? | OneFootball

Celtic have been handed a significant opening in the pursuit of a Hibernian midfielder, Miguel Chaiwa, with the player’s representative claiming that a £3m fee could be enough to complete the transfer.

According to CeltsAreHere, agent Boudjemai Youcef believes his client can leave Hibs for £3m, despite reports that the Edinburgh club value him above that figure. The midfielder remains keen on a switch to Celtic, while the Glasgow club’s next move depends on how its midfield recruitment develops.

That distinction matters. The £3m figure comes from the player’s camp, rather than confirmation that Hibs have accepted it. The Scottish Sun reported today that Hibs continue to seek more than £4m for the 22-year-old, who remains under contract until 2028. So, for now, supporters should treat the £3m claim as a negotiating position rather than a settled transfer price.

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND – FEBRUARY 10: Miguel Chaiwa of Hibernian battles with Claudio Braga of Hearts during the William Hill Premiership match between Heart of Midlothian and Hibernian at Tynecastle Park on February 10, 2026 in Edinburgh, United Kingdom. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)

A £3m deal would make sense for Celtic, provided the club view the midfielder as more than a squad body. He played 28 Scottish Premiership matches for Hibs in 2025/26, started 22 and scored once, according to Opta. Those numbers don’t scream attacking midfielder, but they do show a young player who became a regular presence in a demanding league.

His background strengthens the case. Chaiwa arrived from BSC Young Boys and knew senior football in Switzerland before spending a full campaign in Scotland. He has represented Zambia at international level, including the Africa Cup of Nations, while his Young Boys experience gave him exposure to European competition. That CV matters because Celtic need midfielders who can handle pressure without requiring months to settle.

The case for taking the gamble

There is another angle. Gineitis remains the more expensive midfield target in the scenario, so Chaiwa could offer a cheaper alternative or an additional option while the engine room changes shape. At £3m, Celtic would buy a 22-year-old defensive midfielder with domestic experience, European exposure and room to increase his value.

Still, calling it risk-free would be too generous. One goal and no assists across 28 league appearances show limited attacking output, and Celtic would demand more control and consistency at a higher level. Hibs have every reason to hold out for their valuation, too.

If the agent’s £3m figure reflects negotiating room, Celtic should investigate it seriously. The fee would preserve money for other recruitment while adding a young ball-winner who already understands Scottish football. That is a sensible bet, not a free hit.