Celtic are building momentum in the transfer market after completing the signing of Camilo Duran, and a second deal could follow in quick succession.
The Scottish club have turned their attention to Stade Reims midfielder Mory Gbane, with serious interest now confirmed in the Frenchman.
According to Foot Mercato, Celtic are firmly in the race to sign Gbane, though they face competition from West Ham United and Turkish side Trabzonspor.
Reims have indicated they are willing to sanction the midfielder’s departure, but only if interested clubs meet their asking price this summer.
The exact valuation has not been disclosed, though it is expected to be a significant fee for a player who impressed heavily last season.
Gbane stands at 6’2 and made almost six defensive contributions per game in France’s second division last season, making him an imposing presence at the base of midfield.
The midfielder also demonstrated his ability to play forward, completing 2.94 accurate long balls per game last season, giving Celtic an attractive all-round option.
That passing range alone makes Gbane a strong candidate to thrive under Martin O’Neill, who is not afraid to play more direct football when the situation demands it.
Celtic have not been heavy spenders over the past 12 months, and whether they are willing to meet Reims’ valuation remains the central question in this pursuit.
Duran arrived having scored five goals in 10 Champions League games last season, and landing Gbane alongside him would represent a genuinely productive summer window.
The potential arrival of another midfielder could also have consequences elsewhere in the squad, with questions growing over the future of Arne Engels.
Should Engels depart, replacing him with a more defensively secure profile like Gbane could provide the midfield balance Celtic have been lacking over recent months.
Celtic’s transfer activity has been described as similar to London buses, with one arrival potentially triggering another in rapid-fire fashion.
The Gbane chase remains at an early stage, and with West Ham and Trabzonspor also circling, Celtic will need to move decisively if they want to win the race.