Ajax have confirmed the signing of Kasper Dolberg, just 24 hours after Celtic’s pursuit of the striker came to an end.
The Danish international has rejoined his former club in a deal reportedly worth around €10 million, with negotiations taking longer than expected before he signed a four-year contract running until 2029.
Dolberg had been identified as Celtic’s top target to replace Adam Idah, but their move collapsed when Ajax stepped in late to hijack the deal.
The 27-year-old came through the Ajax system and previously spent four seasons in Amsterdam, scoring regularly before moving to Nice in 2019. His return has been warmly welcomed by the Dutch club, who acted quickly to secure him after talks with Anderlecht and Celtic failed to progress.
Ajax is delighted to announce the return of Kasper Dolberg.
Good to have you back, Kasper! ♥️
— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) September 2, 2025
For Celtic, the news represents another hammer blow in a transfer window filled with frustration. Brendan Rodgers had been desperate to land Dolberg, believing his experience and pedigree could provide the firepower required for domestic dominance and European competition.
Instead, the Hoops watched on as Ajax moved decisively to finalise a deal, leaving Rodgers to scramble for alternatives. With Adam Idah departing for Swansea and David Datro Fofana rejecting Celtic for Charlton Athletic, the Parkhead boss has been left without the striker he has pushed for all summer.
Soccer Football – Premier League – Manchester United v Burnley – Old Trafford, Manchester, Britain – April 27, 2024 Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka in action with Burnley’s David Datro Fofana REUTERS/Carl Recine
Ajax, meanwhile, have presented Dolberg as a returning hero, highlighting his previous success at the Johan Cruyff Arena and pointing to his ability to lead their forward line in both Eredivisie and European competition.
The contrast is stark: Ajax moved swiftly to bring home a proven goalscorer, while Celtic’s inability to close the deal has exposed the flaws in their recruitment operation. For supporters, Dolberg’s unveiling in Amsterdam only deepens the frustration of what has been one of the most disappointing transfer windows in recent memory.
