Celtic Plot Move For This Norwegian Hitman: Why He Holds The Right Profile To Replace Iheanacho

Celtic Plot Move For This Norwegian Hitman: Why He Holds The Right Profile To Replace Iheanacho If a recent transfer update from Il Secolo XIX (as cited by Martin Crawford on X ) is believed to be true, Celtic are keeping close tabs on Tobias Lauritsen ahead of a potential summer swoop. But they are not alone in the race, with Leicester City and Sampdoria also keen on the former Sparta Rotterdam hitman, who is currently available on a Bosman upon the expiration of his contract with De Kasteelheren . The 28-year-old Norwegian progressed through Herkules’ academy ranks before breaking into their first-team squad in the fourth division. He then had a spell with Urædd in the same league ahead of a transfer to the top-flight outfit Odd. However, he left for the lower-ranked Pors Grenland in 2016 after only one Cup appearance for the Skien side, but returned to Skagerak in 2018 Arena following a blistering scoring stint. GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – APRIL 25: Ross Doohan, Daizen Maeda, Dane Murray and Kelechi Iheanacho of Celtic acknowledge the fans following the William Hill Premiership match between Celtic and Falkirk at Celtic Park Stadium on April 25, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images) Lauritsen soon secured a starting status in Eliteserien, and his emergence up top earned him a €450k move to Sparta Rotterdam in the summer of 2022. He has hit double digits in each of his four seasons in the Eredivisie, and is now keen for a fresh challenge elsewhere after failing to reach an agreement over a contract extension with the Dutch club. Why Celtic Must Bring In The Norwegian Targetman The frustration is growing among the fans, with Celtic yet to bolster their squad despite multiple rumours. They lacked the ambition and intent over the past couple of windows and settled for below-par signings. Martin O’Neill, then in charge as interim boss, reiterated the necessity of reinforcements across the pitch, but must accelerate talks after accepting a permanent role at Paradise. Meanwhile, the veteran Irishman has convinced Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to stay for another season. But they have not offered Kelechi Iheanacho a similar extension, despite contributing to their Premiership and Scottish Cup triumphs. The Nigerian’s recurring injury woes forced him to remain sidelined for the majority of the campaign, and the likely  departure of Daizen Maeda would further decimate the Bhoys’ attack. Celtic are assessing several names, with Qarabag star Camilo Duran  emerging as a prime centre-forward target. But they must restore parity high up the pitch with another addition, and Lauritsen, now a free agent, should be viewed as a like-for-like replacement for Iheanacho. The 6 ft 3 in hitman is known for his poaching and finishing attributes in and around the box, and his presence alongside Duran and Callum Osmand would make the Hoops well-equipped in the ‘number 9’ spot.