Celtic Step Up Niels Nkounkou Chase as Hoops Push to Hijack Nice Deal

Celtic have stepped up their pursuit of Eintracht Frankfurt left-back Niels Nkounkou as Martin O’Neill’s late transfer business continues to accelerate.

French outlet Foot Mercato reports that Celtic are now pushing to complete a deal for the 25-year-old, who had previously reached an agreement with OGC Nice.

That makes this more than another loose transfer link.

Celtic appear to be actively trying to get the deal over the line.

Celtic Push for Niels Nkounkou

Foot Mercato reporters Santi Aouna and Aurélien Léger-Moëc revealed that Celtic have accelerated their interest in Nkounkou.

Nice had identified the former Everton defender as a potential replacement for Melvin Bard if their own left-back departed before the deadline.

However, Celtic have now entered the situation aggressively and are attempting to move ahead of the Ligue 1 club.

Nkounkou is back at Eintracht Frankfurt following a season-long loan with Torino.

He remains contracted to the Bundesliga club until 2028 but has been left outside Frankfurt’s opening squads this season, increasing the possibility of another move.

The Frenchman is primarily a left-back but can also operate further forward on the left side.

Celtic Need Cover for Kieran Tierney

The interest makes considerable sense.

Kieran Tierney remains Celtic’s clear first choice, but the squad requires genuine depth behind him.

Celtic had also explored a loan move for Chelsea youngster Landon Emenalo, but Nkounkou would bring considerably more senior experience.

He has played in France, England, Belgium, Germany and Italy, while also representing France at youth international level.

At 25, this would not be a development signing.

It would be a player expected to contribute immediately.

That matters with Celtic facing Europa League football alongside the Premiership, League Cup and Scottish Cup.

The biggest question now is the structure of any proposed deal.

Foot Mercato have not yet reported a fee, loan terms or an agreement between Celtic and Frankfurt.

However, the wording is significant.

Celtic are not merely monitoring Nkounkou.

They are reported to be pushing to complete the operation.

With the transfer deadline closing in, this is certainly one to watch closely.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Celtic have accelerated their pursuit of Niels Nkounkou.
• Foot Mercato reports Celtic are pushing to complete the deal.
• Nkounkou had previously been in agreement with OGC Nice.
• Nice’s move was linked to the possible departure of Melvin Bard.
• Nkounkou could provide experienced competition and cover for Kieran Tierney.
• No Celtic-Frankfurt agreement or transfer fee has yet been reported.