Celtic Rejects Tiemoue Bakayoko Deal After Training Assessment

Celtic have decided not to offer Tiemoue Bakayoko a contract after the former Chelsea and AC Milan midfielder trained with the club during the international break, according to Anthony Joseph on October 9, 2026. The session took place in Glasgow as the club assessed a possible move. Bakayoko’s name emerged as a potential Celtic target after he was seen training with the club.

According to information reported by Anthony Joseph, the midfielder was using Celtic’s facilities to maintain his fitness rather than completing a medical or finalizing a transfer. Earlier claims that Bakayoko was close to signing for Celtic and had undergone a medical were inaccurate, according to the report. The club ultimately chose not to proceed with a deal, leaving the French international without a new team.

Anthony Joseph reported that Bakayoko had trained at Celtic during the break, but the club’s decision means his period without a club will continue. The midfielder has been unattached since leaving PAOK in the summer of 2025.

According to the report, Bakayoko’s last competitive appearance came in late 2024. His previous career included spells with AS Monaco, Chelsea, AC Milan, and Napoli, with Celtic considering his experience before deciding against a contract. The midfielder had gained recognition during his time at AS Monaco, where he featured at Champions League level before earning a transfer to Chelsea. According to the report, his later career included loan periods with other major European clubs.

Celtic’s evaluation also came after concerns about Bakayoko’s recent fitness record and his extended period without playing. According to Anthony Joseph, those factors contributed to the club’s decision not to make a move. The report noted there had been no previous connection between Celtic and Bakayoko before the training opportunity. His access to the club’s facilities indicated there had been some level of interest from Celtic during the assessment process.

Celtic had also been linked with Bakayoko earlier in the year before signing Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, according to the report. The club instead decided not to pursue the French midfielder after reviewing the situation. Bakayoko’s current status remains unchanged following Celtic’s decision. The midfielder, who left PAOK in 2025, continues to search for a club after his last match appearance in late 2024.