Celtic’s interest in Mory Gbane is another sign that the Scottish Premiership side are looking to strengthen in midfield, even after adding Colombian striker Camilo Duran. The Reims midfielder is also being followed by West Ham United and Trabzonspor, which gives this one the shape of a proper three-club race.
Gbane, who is 25 and stands 6ft 2in, is understood to be a key player for Reims. That matters because the more clubs that enter the picture, the harder it becomes for any one buyer to move quickly and on favourable terms.
Why Celtic are watching closely
For Celtic, the attraction is obvious. Next season they will be in the Champions League, and that kind of platform can still make a difference when a player is weighing up his options.
Gbane could be drawn to that stage, especially if he sees a route to regular football at Parkhead. Celtic are also working with the wider reality of squad building: a new striker has arrived, but the report suggests midfield remains an area that still needs attention.
What Reims may have to consider
Reims will know they have a valuable asset. Gbane made 30 appearances across all competitions last season and scored three goals, which underlines both his availability and his contribution.
That does not automatically mean a sale is inevitable. But it does suggest that if Celtic, West Ham United and Trabzonspor all stay interested, Reims could be pushed into a decision on whether to hold on to a key performer or test the market while demand is high.
At this stage, the story is less about a completed move and more about positioning. Celtic have identified a midfielder they like, but they are not alone, and that is what makes Mory Gbane such an interesting name in this transfer picture.
