Celtic’s attempt to bolster their midfield options for next season was dealt a blow over the weekend after a late move for Georgian international Giorgi Kochorashvili fell through. Reports from Spain confirm that the 25-year-old midfielder, who featured prominently for Levante in Spain’s Segunda División, opted to sign a £5 million deal with Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon instead of making a move to the Scottish champions.
Kochorashvili, known for his technical ability and vision, had attracted Celtic’s interest as they prepare for a squad reshuffle this summer. The Georgian registered four assists and three goals in 29 league appearances for Levante last season, helping them remain contenders for promotion. Despite Celtic’s urgent approach, the Lisbon-based club ultimately secured his services, leaving Brendan Rodgers to explore alternative options in the transfer market.
🚨🇬🇪Levante confirm the departure of Giorgi Kochorashvili to Sporting CP!✅
The Georgian international midfielder will join the Portuguese side on a multi-year deal this summer!🔜📝
A massive move for Kochorashvili and a deserved one at that!🔥 pic.twitter.com/wh6kDHdcQm
— Georgian Footy (@GeorgianFooty) March 31, 2025
Celtic’s midfield could see considerable changes with Japanese international Reo Hatate expected to depart during the summer window. Hatate, who joined Celtic from Kawasaki Frontale in 2022, has been a regular starter when fit, contributing key goals and assists during Celtic’s domestic dominance. His exit could further motivate the club’s interest in emerging talent Lennon Miller, an 18-year-old regarded as one of Motherwell’s brightest prospects. Valued at £4 million, Miller is attracting wider attention, but Celtic appear determined to secure his signature.
Another familiar target has resurfaced on Celtic’s radar in the form of Michel-Ange Balikwisha. The £5 million-rated Royal Antwerp winger was previously linked with a January move to Glasgow before an untimely injury ended negotiations. Now fully recovered, Balikwisha played in Antwerp’s recent 5–1 defeat to Union Saint-Gilloise, a match reportedly scouted by Celtic representatives. The 22-year-old Belgian has recorded five goals and six assists this season in the Jupiler Pro League, and his dynamic style could bring added flair to Celtic’s wide options.
Meanwhile, Celtic defender Greg Taylor is reportedly considering a summer switch to Dinamo Zagreb. The Croatian side have offered the 27-year-old left-back a lucrative deal as his contract nears its end. However, Taylor is also evaluating interest from Major League Soccer, where family considerations may influence his choice.