David Datro Fofana back on Celtic’s radar, advanced talks on Mohamed Bamba

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The Celtic Star

·20 janvier 2026

David Datro Fofana back on Celtic’s radar, advanced talks on Mohamed Bamba

Chelsea have brought David Datro Fofana back to Stamford Bridge following the conclusion of his loan spell in Turkey, with Celtic and several other clubs monitoring his situation…

David Datro Fofana of Burnley celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Fulham FC at Turf Moor on February 03, 2024 . (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

The Ivory Coast striker had been spending the opening months of the campaign with Fatih Karagümrük in the Super Lig and has now returned to England as discussions continue over his next move.

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Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the development on X, indicating that Chelsea are already exploring options for a permanent transfer, with negotiations ongoing between the player’s representatives and the club.

🚨 Chelsea recall David Datro Fofana from loan as he’s set for new move in the upcoming days/weeks. #CFC and Fofana’s camp working on a permanent exit.
– lundi 19 janvier 2026

Celtic-linked Fofana is expected to secure a new permanent club in the coming weeks as his long-term future moves closer to resolution.

The 21-year-old enjoyed a productive stint in Istanbul, registering eight goals from 15 appearances, a return that eclipsed his combined output from previous loan spells at Union Berlin, Burnley and Göztepe.

Interest in the forward remains strong, with Romano recently naming Royal Antwerp and Derby County among the clubs tracking his availability alongside Celtic. A permanent transfer is understood to be the preferred outcome rather to another short-term deal.

Elsewhere, Celtic are also believed to be advancing talks for FC Lorient attacker Mohamed Bamba.

Reports in France suggest the Scottish champions have intensified their efforts to add the 24-year-old to their squad as they look to bolster attacking options for the second half of the season.

French outlet Sport.fr claims a formal loan proposal has been lodged, which would include an option to make the move permanent. Lorient are said to be weighing up the offer for the Ivory Coast Under-23 international as negotiations continue.

Martin O’Neill is hoping to have additions in for Celtic’s crucial trip to Tynecastle on Sunday.

Given the league table, Celtic simply cannot afford any more slip ups or defeats that would most likely conclude their title aspirations. Indeed Celtic essentially need to collect the three points against Hearts and will go into the game after a challenging Europa League match in Italy against Bologna on Thursday evening.

Conor Spence