Already thinking about 2026 arrivals, Celtic have now reportedly joined Spanish giants Atletico Madrid and Premier League side Chelsea in the race to sign teenage talent.

Rodgers admits "there'll always be criticism"

It’s been a frustrating week for the Hoops so far after being forced to settle for a point at Red Star Belgrade. The Bhoys once again came up short on the European stage, although manager Brendan Rodgers claimed that it was a good point and admitted that “there’ll always be criticism” on such a stage.

The big positive for Celtic to take from Belgrade is Kelechi Iheanacho’s second goal in three games for the club. The former Leicester City striker didn’t exactly receive the instant support of those at Celtic Park after arriving late on in the summer window, but has since proved several doubters wrong.

With Hibernian up next, Iheanacho will be looking to make his mark yet again to hand Rodgers the talisman that he has been seeking. That said, even after the Nigerian’s arrival, the Bhoys still have unfinished business in the transfer window.

Reports are now suggesting that they’ve joined the race to sign a teenage talent alongside Atletico Madrid and Chelsea in 2026.

Celtic join race to sign Oyirwoth

As reported by The Blazing Musket, Celtic are now racing to sign Allan Oyirwoth alongside Atletico Madrid and Chelsea. The three clubs have all set their sights on the New England Revolution midfielder, who has already made his mark on senior football in the MSL.

Already earning plenty of praise, Oyirwoth was described as “very talented” by New England teammate Matt Polster earlier this month and is certainly a player to watch.

Of course, jumping ahead of Atletico Madrid and Chelsea in the race for his signature will be no easy task, but Celtic can offer the vital game time that their rivals are unlikely to hand the midfielder.

Not Tounekti: "Outstanding" talent in line to be Celtic's next £25m player

Sebastian Tounekti has made an excellent start to life at Celtic, but a different star in Hoops could prove to be their next £25m sale.

By
Ben Gray

Sep 25, 2025

Rodgers has already proved his willingness to play young players this season – starting 19-year-old Colby Donovan in Belgrade – and Oyirwoth could be next to benefit from that in Scotland.