Celtic is actively negotiating a move to bring Mateusz Bogusz from Los Angeles FC to Scotland. With Matt O’Riley expected to join Brighton & Hove Albion soon, the Scottish club is also exploring the possibility of re-signing former star Jota on loan. Manager Brendan Rodgers faces the challenge of finding a replacement for O’Riley, who has been a standout performer.
Despite the anticipated £30 million windfall from O’Riley’s transfer, Rodgers acknowledges that finding a player who can match his impressive contributions will be a difficult task. O’Riley, who could finalize his move to England early next week, excelled last season with 19 goals and 18 assists from his midfield role. Rodgers has emphasized the challenge of directly replicating O’Riley’s impact.
Rodgers has hinted that the club plans to use the transfer funds to strengthen the squad with multiple signings rather than making a significant investment in one high-profile player. Mateusz Bogusz, a promising attacking midfielder from Los Angeles FC, is among the targets. Valued at around £8 million, Bogusz has made a strong impression in Major League Soccer with 17 goals and six assists this season. His left-footed style and ability to operate from the right side could make him a suitable fit for the role left vacant by O’Riley.
In addition to Bogusz, Celtic is also keen on bringing back Filipe Jota, who enjoyed a successful spell at Parkhead from 2021 to 2023. Jota, who became Celtic’s record sale when he moved to Al-Ittihad, might return to Europe after struggling in Saudi Arabia. Celtic is exploring a loan deal for Jota, although Al-Ittihad prefers a permanent sale, with French club Rennes also showing interest.
Rodgers remains optimistic about enhancing the team before the transfer deadline, emphasizing the need for quality additions to improve the squad’s performance in European competitions. With potential targets like Arne Engels of Augsburg also linked to the club, Celtic’s transfer activity is expected to ramp up as the deadline approaches.