According to a recent transfer update from Ben Jacobs, Celtic is closely monitoring Philip Otele, who is likely to depart from Basel during this transfer window. The Swiss club is open to offers around €7 million, with interest from teams such as Wolves, Birmingham City, Bournemouth, and Lazio in the mix for the Nigerian winger.
The 26-year-old forward began his career at Teesside University and Wolviston in England before moving to the Lithuanian club Kauno Žalgiris. He later joined UTA Arad on a Bosman deal, where his impressive performances led to a significant transfer to CFR Cluj, another Romanian side. During the 2023-24 season, Otele scored 18 goals, which facilitated his €3.5 million move to Al Wahda in the UAE Pro League.
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His Development at Basel
Basel signed him on an initial loan six months later and subsequently activated the buy option last summer due to Otele’s immediate success on the field. He scored 9 goals in 18 league matches, playing a crucial role in their victory over Servette.
Fulham also showed interest in acquiring him but ultimately opted to sign Kevin for £34 million from Shakhtar. Despite his strong performances this season, where he has netted 8 goals and provided 3 assists in 30 matches across all competitions, Basel has significantly lowered his valuation from £15 million last summer.
BASEL, SWITZERLAND – OCTOBER 02: Philip Otele of Basel (R) shoots the ball during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between FC Basel 1893 and VfB Stuttgart at St. Jakob-Park on October 02, 2025, in Basel, Switzerland. (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images)
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While there are plenty of suitors for the talented wide player, Celtic needs to demonstrate their ambition in the coming weeks to correct the missteps of the previous transfer window. Martin O’Neill has returned to management following Wilfried Nancy’s disappointing 33-day stint, and the club’s board must support the legendary Irishman, especially given the significant investments made by Hearts and Rangers, to remain competitive in the title race.
Why Celtic Should Intensify Their Pursuit of Otele
With Kelechi Iheanacho and Callum Osmand out for an extended period, the Bhoys are actively seeking a ‘number 9’ to resolve their striking issues. However, attention to the wing positions is also critical, especially following Jota’s season-ending injury.
Michel-Ange Balikwisha has struggled to make an impact since his summer arrival, and although Sebastian Tounekti has showcased moments of brilliance with his flair and dribbling skills, he has faced challenges with his decision-making and productivity. During the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Luke McCowan was called upon to fill in as a makeshift winger, and the coaching staff has had to deploy Daizen Maeda as a central forward due to the lack of a dedicated goalscorer.
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Rangers recently made headlines by signing Andreas Skov Olsen on loan, and Hearts’ acquisition of Rogers Mato is being hailed as a savvy move by Derek McInnes. It’s time for Celtic to show determination and make a concerted effort to bring Otele to Parkhead.