Celtic move for Belgian forward held up despite scheduling medical after transfer agreement with Royal Antwerp

Despite reaching an agreement in principle with Antwerp and Balikwisha, Celtic are still waiting to push the move over the line, with lawyer-related complications holding up what seemed like a straightforward transfer. According to Sacha Tavolieri, 'internal issues related to the player’s situation' are preventing the deal from going through. 

Balikwisha has long been on Celtic’s radar, with the club first showing interest back in 2024. The winger has made four appearances for Antwerp this season, scoring once. Frequent Injuries slowed his progress in the last few years, but he has still managed 30 goals and 17 assists across 145 appearances for the Belgian side. Celtic are in need of attacking reinforcements after selling Nicolas Kuhn to Como earlier in July. With Daizen Maeda the only recognised left winger in the squad, manager Brendon Rodgers was keen to get Balikwisha onboard. 

 Balikwisha has represented Belgium at every youth level, including 10 caps with the U21s between 2021 and 2023.

Balikwisha is still waiting for the green light to complete his move to Celtic Park. The Hoops, meanwhile, are focused on their Champions League play-off tie against FC Kairat, with the first leg taking place on Wednesday, August 20, and the return leg in Kazakhstan next week.