Celtic Targets Young Talent Abdoulaye Doumbia Amid Defensive Struggles
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill faces increasing pressure as the 2026/27 season progresses, with the team experiencing seven losses in both domestic and European competitions. The 2-0 defeat against Falkirk was particularly painful, but the team managed to stave off a crisis with a narrow 3-2 victory over Beşiktaş in the Europa League, marking their first win in the tournament after three consecutive losses. However, this momentary success has not masked the persistent issues within the squad.
A critical weakness has emerged in the defensive midfield position, where opponents have repeatedly exploited the team’s vulnerabilities during transitions. Although captain Callum McGregor remains a key figure in the midfield, his solo efforts are insufficient to cover all required ground. Meanwhile, Luke McCowan has struggled and remains sidelined after disappointing performances in European qualifiers, leaving O’Neill without strong options for backup.
The situation worsened with the high-profile departure of Arne Engels during the summer transfer window, with the club failing to secure a suitable replacement amid board-level conflicts that curtailed a £13 million bid for Torino’s Gvidas Gineitis. The absence of a quality defensive midfielder has created an urgent need for O’Neill to strengthen this position, with Parkhead scouts identifying a potential candidate in Sweden.
A Swedish Target for Celtic
According to reports from Football Insider, Celtic has shifted its focus towards 19-year-old Abdoulaye Doumbia of BK Hacken. The young midfielder, originally from the Ivory Coast, has demonstrated solid defensive capabilities, contributing two goals and three assists in 25 league matches this season. His ability to win the ball in the midfield, cover significant horizontal distance, and effectively tackle will be vital for the team’s needs.
Doumbia’s style aligns with O’Neill’s emphasis on a direct transitional playing approach that requires a formidable presence to disrupt central counter-attacks and support advancing players. Nevertheless, his youth necessitates a degree of patience as he continues to develop.
Competition for Doumbia’s signature is fierce, with clubs such as Everton, Sunderland, Coventry City, and other European teams expressing interest. Torino’s Gineitis remains a fallback option if his price becomes more favorable.
Should Celtic Overpay to Win the Race for Doumbia?
Many believe that Celtic should not hesitate to invest in Doumbia. The team has suffered consequences in Europe due to its reluctance to pay for essential midfield strength following key departures, and settling for a less expensive option with Gineitis could repeat past mistakes.
Opting to wait for Gineitis’s valuation to decline, given poor form in Serie A, poses a risk that could exacerbate the squad’s current depth issues. Doumbia, with sharp match fitness from his 25 Allsvenskan appearances, represents the type of high-volume ball-winner that O’Neill prefers.
Given Everton’s financial muscle, Celtic may need to provide higher wages or offer a clear pathway to first-team involvement to secure Doumbia. The allure of Europa League competition and a clear platform for development should entice the teenager. To enhance their chances this season, the Celtic board must avoid compromising decisions and instead focus on acquiring the one target who could significantly impact the team’s trajectory.
