Celtic FC is ramping up efforts to secure the signature of Eintracht Frankfurt’s left-back Niels Nkounkou, 25, as they look to hijack OGC Nice's stalled transfer plans.
Why it matters: Celtic’s pursuit of Nkounkou highlights their need for depth in the left-back position, particularly behind Kieran Tierney. This move could also signify a shift in their transfer strategy as they seek experienced players to bolster their squad.
Celtic is reportedly making a strong push to complete a deal for Nkounkou before the transfer window closes.
The club aims to capitalize on OGC Nice's hesitation after they reached an agreement with Nkounkou, contingent on Melvin Bard's departure.
Celtic's interest signifies an urgent need for defensive cover as they prepare for a busy season across multiple competitions.
Driving the news: Nkounkou's situation at Frankfurt has become precarious after joining from AS Saint-Étienne for €7.5 million in August 2023. His playing time diminished during the 2024–25 season, leading to a loan to Torino for the 2025-26 season.
During his loan at Torino, Nkounkou made 14 appearances and contributed one assist, but he still saw limited action.
Currently under contract with Frankfurt until 2028, Nkounkou was omitted from the squad for the first two matches of the 2026-27 season.
With his value estimated at around €3 million, Nkounkou's future appears uncertain at Frankfurt.
State of play: With the transfer deadline fast approaching, Celtic is pushing hard for Nkounkou, who had previously been identified by Nice as a potential replacement for Bard.
Nice's negotiations were contingent on Bard's departure, which has yet to occur, leaving the door open for Celtic.
Reports indicate that Celtic’s aggressive approach is not merely monitoring but actively seeking to finalize the transfer.
Celtic's management believes Nkounkou can provide immediate competition and depth in the left-back role.
The big picture: Nkounkou's potential move to Celtic would add valuable experience to their backline as they prepare for a demanding schedule that includes domestic leagues and European competitions.
Celtic's current left-back, Kieran Tierney, is a key player, but the squad requires reliable alternatives to maintain performance levels.
Nkounkou's versatility allows him to play both as a traditional left-back and in more advanced positions on the left flank.
This transfer could mark a strategic pivot for Celtic as they reassess their roster ahead of the new season.
What they're saying: Former Celtic captain Scott Brown has urged the club to explore other options, such as Dundee United's Will Ferry, highlighting the urgency of strengthening the squad.
Brown's comments come after Celtic sold Arne Engels just before their Champions League qualifier against LASK, raising questions about their transfer strategy.
Critics have pointed out the need for proactive moves in the transfer market to address gaps in the squad.
As the window closes, fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how Celtic will navigate these challenges.
By the numbers: Nkounkou's statistics provide insight into his recent performances and potential impact.
He joined Frankfurt for €7.5 million in 2023 and is currently valued at approximately €3 million.
During his loan spell at Torino, he played 14 matches, contributing one assist.
His contract with Frankfurt runs until 2028, but his role at the club has diminished significantly.
What's next: As the transfer deadline hangs, Celtic is expected to intensify negotiations with Frankfurt to secure Nkounkou's signature.
With Nice's deal stalling, Celtic is in a prime position to finalize a transfer quickly.
Fans will eagerly await to see if Nkounkou can add depth and experience to the squad ahead of a challenging season.
The outcome of this transfer could set the tone for Celtic's strategy moving forward, emphasizing their commitment to strengthening the team.
Celtic's aggressive pursuit of Niels Nkounkou exemplifies their determination to bolster their squad ahead of a competitive season. With the transfer deadline approaching, attention will turn to how this situation develops and whether Nkounkou will don the green and white of Celtic.