Much more like it – Philip Otele and Franko Kovacevic both Celtic targets

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The Celtic Star

·15 Januari 2026

Much more like it – Philip Otele and Franko Kovacevic both Celtic targets

Celtic have begun exploring a potential move for FC Basel wide man Philip Otele after learning the Swiss club are prepared to adjust their valuation of the player…

With the winter window moving quickly, the Hoops have only secured one arrival so far in right-back Julian Araujo, with the club looking to accelerate business in attacking positions. Celtic remain keen to inject more firepower into the squad, particularly a striker.

Julian Araujo of Celtic during the Premier League match between Falkirk and Celtic at Falkirk Stadium on January 14, 2026. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)

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Although a new forward clearly remains a top priority, Celtic are also assessing options on the flanks following underwhelming returns from some recent signings, including Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Sebastian Tounekti.

Transfer insider Ben Jacobs reports that initial contact has been made with Basel regarding the 26-year-old Nigerian attacker, and negotiations could be more achievable than in previous months due to a reduced valuation now believed to sit slightly above £6 million.

Interest in Otele is growing across multiple leagues, with Premier League sides Bournemouth and Wolves joined by Birmingham City and Italian club Lazio in monitoring his availability.

The forward has attracted consistent attention in recent transfer windows, narrowly missing out on switches to Fulham last summer and Brighton the year prior. His form this season has only strengthened his profile, having registered 13 goals and assists.

Otele’s rise has been far from conventional, beginning in English non-league football after completing his studies at Teesside University before spells in Lithuania, Romania and the Middle East paved the way to his current role in Switzerland.

Comfortable operating primarily from the left wing on his stronger right foot, he can also be deployed on the right side or through the middle showing his versatility.

Franko Kovacevic of NK Celje runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Paddy Barrett of Shelbourne during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between NK Celje and Shelbourne FC at Stadion Celje on December 18, 2025 in Celje, Slovenia. (Photo by Jurij Kodrun/Getty Images)

In other news, Celtic have been linked with a move for Slovenian striker Franko Kovacevic. Following last night’s 1-0 victory over Falkirk, Martin O’Neill addressed the rumours.

Celtic Manager Martin O’Neill at post-match media conference. Falkirk v Celtic, Scottish Premiership, Falkirk Stadium, 14 January 2026. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

The Celtic manager said: “I think that I would [have heard of him], I am probably sure I have done, I have only looked at about four and a half thousand at this minute, and that is not bad since I am only in a week!”

“So, yes, we definitely, you can tell a mile away, we need to get a centre forward. I mean, for instance, young Johnny Kenny has done really fine in the games.”

“I think that is really harsh, to put that sort of pressure on a young lad, he has only just arrived at the football club. So, we are looking for help. I am not diverting to your thing, I am just not answering you!”

Conor Spence

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