If the recent reports from Morocco (as cited by The Daily Record) are believed to be true, Celtic are keeping close tabs on Hossam Essadak ahead of a potential winter swoop. Sunderland are also in the mix for the UTS Rabat midfield prospect, but the champions of Scotland are leading the race in an attempt to bolster themselves in the middle of the park.
The Morocco U-20s conquered their first-ever FIFA U-20 World Cup last month under his leadership, defeating Argentina 2-0 in Santiago, Chile. He was supposed to join UD Las Palmas in the summer window. But a rumoured £400,000 transfer did not materialise following the Spanish side’s relegation to the Segunda División.
The 20-year-old midfield attacker progressed through the academy ranks of Académie Mohammed VI back in his homeland before joining Union Touarga in January 2024 on a Bosman. Soon, he impressed with his creative spark in and around the attacking third, and has so far scored and assisted 4 times each in 35 first-team appearances for UTS [stats via Transfermarket]. Essadak is now ready for the next career move, and the Hoops, after a disastrous summer, must make things right in the upcoming January window.
Meanwhile, Celtic are linked with several midfield targets. Bobby Clark, currently on loan at Derby County, is expected to ply his trade in Glasgow after falling down the pecking order at Red Bull Salzburg. Kilmarnock ace David Watson has also emerged as a key target, but the young Moroccan holds a different profile compared to Clark and Watson. They are more effective as box-to-box options, unlike Essadak, who has flourished for his club and the country as an advanced playmaker.
Why Celtic Should Secure His Services
Predominantly a ‘number 10’, the youngster has demonstrated his flexibility down the flanks. He often slotted in a deeper role, thus driving the game with his technicality and vision.
Celtic already have ample depth in the centre of the pitch. Skipper Callum McGregor remains irreplaceable as a ‘number six’, so is Benjamin Nygren, the summer recruit from Nordsjælland, having showcased his expertise in various midfield slots. Reo Hatate, Arne Engels, Luke McCowan and Paulo Bernardo have challenged each other, but the growing mediocrity has been a concern across competitions so far this term.
Although the club have yet to find a long-term successor to Brendan Rodgers, Martin O’Neill has made a strong start on his dramatic return as an interim gaffer. Finding a new manager should be the priority, but they must not let go of the market opportunity.
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