Celtic Open Talks With Noah For Mulahusejnović Transfer

As the January transfer window races toward its dramatic conclusion, Celtic have thrust themselves into the spotlight once again, opening formal talks with Armenian side FC Noah over a potential move for Bosnian striker Nardin Mulahusejnović. The pursuit of the prolific forward comes as interim manager Martin O’Neill looks to bolster the Hoops’ attacking ranks in a bid to reclaim the Scottish Premiership title and inject much-needed firepower into a squad that, by Celtic standards, has struggled to find the net this season.

There’s no denying the urgency in the air at Celtic Park. With the transfer window set to slam shut on Monday night, February 2, 2026, time is of the essence. The club’s intent is clear: find another reliable goal scorer who can help turn the tide in a fiercely competitive title race. Celtic’s recent Europa League win over Utrecht on Thursday only heightened the anticipation, as O’Neill expressed hope that deals could be concluded in the final days of the window. “We’re working hard to bring in the right players before the deadline,” he said, underlining the club’s determination to strengthen before the window closes.

Mulahusejnović, a 27-year-old Bosnian international, has emerged as one of the most sought-after strikers in continental competition this season. His stats speak for themselves: nine goals and two assists across all competitions, including a remarkable five-goal haul in just six Europa Conference League matches. That tally makes him the joint top scorer in the competition, sharing the honor with Franko Kovacevic and Mikael Ishak. His exploits in Europe haven’t gone unnoticed—especially among Scottish supporters, as he found the net at Pittodrie in a 1-1 draw against Aberdeen earlier this campaign.

It’s not just Celtic who are eyeing the powerful 6’3” forward. Another Scottish club—whose identity remains under wraps—is reportedly assessing its options, while Austrian giants Rapid Wien also tried to lure Mulahusejnović with a six-month loan deal featuring a €1.5 million buy option. However, FC Noah have made their stance crystal clear: they are not considering loan offers. According to journalist Rudy Galetti, “Noah rejected it as no loan deals are considered.” That leaves a permanent transfer as the only viable route for potential suitors.

Mulahusejnović’s journey to this point has been anything but ordinary. After a standout season at Zrinjski Mostar in Bosnia, where he netted 17 goals in 42 appearances, he secured a move to Noah on a three-year contract. Since arriving in Armenia, he’s continued to impress, blending physicality, aerial prowess, and a knack for scoring at crucial moments. His four goals in the Armenian top flight, combined with his European heroics, have made him a hot commodity as clubs scramble for attacking reinforcements.

For Celtic, the need for goals is pressing. Historically a free-scoring side in the Premiership, the Hoops have been outscored by Hearts this season and currently sit only three goals ahead of Hibernian and four ahead of Rangers in the league standings. The days of Moussa Dembele, Odsonne Edouard, and Kyogo Furuhashi leading the line with aplomb seem distant, and while Daizen Maeda has worked tirelessly up front, he’s a winger by trade. The consensus is clear: Celtic require a true center-forward to spearhead their attack as they chase silverware on multiple fronts.

The club’s transfer activity this winter window reflects that urgency. Tomas Cvancara, brought in on loan from Borussia Monchengladbach with an option to buy, made his debut against Hearts and promptly registered an assist. Julian Araujo also joined on loan from Bournemouth, adding depth to the squad. Yet, with the league campaign heating up and a packed fixture list ahead, O’Neill knows more is needed. “If Celtic want to win the Premiership title, they need bodies in the building and goals to enhance a previously bleak and struggling attacking line,” noted a recent analysis.

Competition for minutes up front is set to intensify. Kelechi Iheanacho, now fit and back in action after coming off the bench in Thursday’s Europa League victory, offers another option. Callum Osmand and Johnny Kenny are also in the mix, but neither has managed to consistently shoulder the scoring burden. Mulahusejnović’s arrival, should a deal be struck, would provide exactly the kind of competition and quality O’Neill is seeking.

There’s also the matter of timing. With the window closing in a matter of days and several rival clubs circling, Celtic must act decisively if they are to secure their target. The club’s willingness to negotiate, coupled with Mulahusejnović’s apparent preference for a permanent move rather than a loan, could give the Hoops an edge. Rapid Wien’s loan proposal was swiftly dismissed by Noah, and with another Scottish club “assessing its options,” the race is on to see who will land the Bosnian marksman.

Mulahusejnović’s experience across multiple leagues—having played in Bosnia, Russia, and Slovenia before his Armenian adventure—adds to his appeal. A former Bosnia U21 international, he brings a wealth of continental experience and a proven track record of adapting to new environments. Celtic fans may remember his exploits against Scottish opposition, but it’s his consistency in front of goal that has truly set him apart this season.

Looking ahead, Celtic’s next challenge comes swiftly, with a Scottish Premiership clash against Falkirk scheduled for Sunday afternoon. There’s speculation that new signing Tomas Cvancara could make only his second appearance for the club, adding further intrigue to O’Neill’s selection choices. Whether Mulahusejnović will be in the squad by then remains to be seen, but the coming days promise to be pivotal as the transfer window drama reaches its climax.

As the Hoops continue to explore every avenue in their search for attacking reinforcements, one thing is certain: the race for Nardin Mulahusejnović’s signature is heating up. With rival clubs circling, time ticking down, and the promise of goals on the line, the final hours of the transfer window could prove decisive for Celtic’s ambitions this season.