Celtic completed a surprising move on transfer deadline day by signing Joel Mvuka. The Ligue 1 forward joined Celtic late into transfer deadline day and has drawn mixed reactions from fans questioning whether he can significantly strengthen the Parkhead squad.
This signing came as time was starting to run out for Celtic before the transfer window closed as Mvuka’s stats appeared online to worry the Hoops support.
And as Celtic fans make up their minds on whether or not Mvuka was a good signing by the board, transfer specialist Robin Bairner had his say on the move.
Celtic board criticised for late Joel Mvuka transfer
Bairner specialises in transfers in France and Scotland for footballtransfers.com and accused the Celtic board of being lazy on the final day of the window.
Bairner noted on X, “Weird move. Mvuka a mediocre Ligue 1 player, so unless Celtic work miracles on him, he’s not going to elevate the level of the squad significantly.
“Smacks of the Celtic board feeling they’re better doing something rather than nothing, rather than actually making a smart move.”
Weird move. Mvuka a mediocre Ligue 1 player, so unless Celtic work miracles on him, he's not going to elevate the level of the squad significantly.
— Robin Bairner (@RBairner) February 2, 2026
Smacks of the Celtic board feeling they're better doing something rather than nothing, rather than actually making a smart move. https://t.co/jDHrblW43Q
Why Celtic Made Mvuka Move
Celtic have been exploring options to bolster their attacking options before the transfer deadline. Mvuka, while not a standout in Ligue 1, brings pace and versatility to the squad.
While the winger’s stats don’t make good reading, Celtic fans will be hoping Martin O’Neill can work his coaching magic on him.
Fan and Pundit Reactions
Fans on social media reacted quickly to the signing, with opinions divided. Some are hopeful Mvuka can adapt quickly, while others share concerns similar to those expressed by Bairner.
Polls embedded on fan forums indicate a mix of excitement and skepticism.
Loading ...What Mvuka Means for the Celtic Squad
The arrival of Mvuka will give Martin O’Neill the chance to improve Celtic’s rotation and starting XI decisions in the coming weeks.
With Mvuka predominantly playing as a right winger, this will give the Celtic manager the chance to rotate and rest Hyunjun Yang as well as give the South Korean some much-needed competition.
Next Steps for Mvuka and Celtic
Supporters will be watching closely to see how Mvuka adapts to life at Parkhead.
Meanwhile, Celtic’s board may continue monitoring additional opportunities even after the window has closed with reports Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain could be added to the squad.
For further discussion, fans can visit the Born Celtic forum, The Jungle, to share reactions and predictions for the new signing.
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