Celtic target Mory Gbane subject of formal transfer talks | OneFootball

Standard Liege have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Stade de Reims midfielder Mory Gbane by entering formal negotiations over a potential transfer.

The Ivorian has also emerged as a target for Celtic, with the Scottish champions understood to be closely monitoring his situation as Reims prepare to offload players following their failure to secure an immediate return to Ligue 1.

At 6ft 2in, Gbane would provide Martin O’Neill with a powerful defensive midfield option currently lacking in his squad, while also bringing experience gained across several European leagues.

However, it is Standard who appear to be leading the race for the 25-year-old’s signature.

Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri reports that the Pro League side have now opened talks with Reims in an effort to complete a deal, with the French club willing to move the midfielder on as they look to reduce their wage bill.

Standard recently created room in midfield following the departure of Teddy Teuma, another player who had previously made the switch from Reims to Belgium.

Gbane is capable of operating in central defence as well as midfield and joined Reims for around £4.4 million in February 2025.

Despite his arrival, the French side suffered relegation later that year before falling short in their attempt to bounce straight back to the top flight, with Gbane featuring in just over half of their league fixtures.

The midfielder earned his first senior cap for Ivory Coast last summer but narrowly missed out on selection for this year’s World Cup squad.

Before moving to France, Gbane enjoyed spells in Croatia, Russia and Portugal, where his performances earned him a move to Reims.

He has also attracted interest from West Ham, who continue to work on a deal for Celtic midfielder Arne Engels after reportedly agreeing personal terms with the Belgian international.

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