Reliable journalist Pete O’Rourke has claimed that Marseille forward Bamba Dieng could be ‘a bit too expensive’ for Celtic to sign this summer.

The Lowdown: Hoops join the race

The 22-year-old first joined the Ligue 1 outfit back in 2020 on loan, but just a year after making his deal permanent he is set for an exit at the Orange Velodrome after falling out of favour under manager Igor Tudor.

The Daily Mail reports that the Scottish Premiership champions, alongside multiple Premier League clubs including Leeds United and Newcastle, are interested in a move for the striker this window, though it looks set to be a very difficult task given his valuation.

The Latest: O’Rourke’s comments

O’Rourke, speaking to The Transfer Tavern, suggested that Dieng could cost a fee in the region of £15m, a price tag he believes would be out of reach for Celtic. He said:

“The Champions League football would give you an advantage over a lot of clubs because that’s where most top players want to play, but I just think Bamba Dieng might just be a bit too expensive for Celtic right now, you’re probably talking around £15m to sign him so I think that’s out of Celtic’s price range.”

The Verdict: Blow for Postecoglou

If the Hoops can’t afford a move for Dieng this summer, it will be a hammer blow to Ange Postecoglou, who is clearly still keen to bolster his attacking ranks.

Last season, the Senegalese sensation - who's even been dubbed the 'new Sadio Mane' - made ten goal contributions in just 25 Ligue 1 outings, as per Transfermarkt, and is a versatile individual, having played in all positions across the frontline, an attribute that will have no doubt attracted the Australian.

Celtic breaking the bank for Dieng seems highly unlikely, and with the possibility that English top-flight clubs could offer more money, the boss may well have to turn his attention elsewhere as he looks to add the last few touches to his squad for the season ahead.