Celtic’s requirement for a striker was never clearer during the summer transfer window as the club attempted, and ultimately failed, to secure a new number nine.
Speculation linking Celtic with Mathias Kvistgaarden as the answer to their attacking woes failed to materialise, despite nearly 18 months of rumours.
With the clock ticking down, Celtic shifted their focus to Kasper Dolberg and it appeared that an agreement was close.
However, the move collapsed at the eleventh hour when Dolberg turned down Celtic and opted to rejoin his former club Ajax instead.
Now, the Danish forward has found the net in the Champions League as Celtic battle it out in UEFA’s secondary competition this evening.
Kasper Dolberg’s Champions League strike as Celtic’s striker problems persist
Celtic did manage to bring in Tomas Cvancara during the January window, but the deal was finalised so late that the Czech striker is unavailable for tonight’s Europa League clash with Utrecht.
Had Celtic managed to complete the signing of Dolberg, perhaps he would have been producing moments like this at Parkhead in the Champions League.
Ajax may have exited UEFA’s premier competition at the group stage, but with 10 goals already to Dolberg’s name this season, one has to wonder if, had he been at Celtic, the Bhoys would be competing in the Champions League rather than facing Kairat Almaty.
Kasper Dolberg’s full Ajax scoring record since turning down Celtic
With five goals in 16 appearances, Dolberg has proven to be a solid addition to the Ajax squad this campaign.
Here is how those goals are distributed:
Eredivisie: 10 matches, three goals
Champions League: five matches, two goals
It suggests that Dolberg, had he signed for Celtic, might have been the difference between Champions League football and a Europa League campaign.
Unfortunately, Celtic supporters will never find out.