Sebastian Tounekti: A Long-Awaited Addition to Celtic’s Attack

The Move — Slow, Frustrating, but Finally Done

Celtic eventually confirmed the signing of Sebastian Tounekti from Hammarby on a five-year deal. Reports suggest the fee landed somewhere between £5.2–£5.5 million, depending on add-ons. What should have been a straightforward deal dragged on far too long - much like the writing of this piece after deadline day (sorry about that!), leaving supporters angry at the board’s lack of urgency. By the time it was announced, it felt more like a relief than a triumph.

Profile: Who Is Tounekti?

• Background: Born in Tromsø, Norway, Tounekti came through at Tromsdalen before spells with Bodø/Glimt, Haugesund, Ranheim (loan), and Groningen (loan) before his 2025 move to Hammarby. Internationally, he switched allegiance from Norway’s youth sides to represent Tunisia at senior level, already earning 2 caps.

• Stats at Hammarby: In just over 20 appearances, he managed 3 goals and 5 assists. Not poor numbers, but hardly the sort of output that screams “game-changer.”

• Playing Style: Brendan Rodgers described him as a “quick, clever winger” who can operate on both sides. His strengths lie in his pace, direct running, and willingness to take on defenders, qualities Celtic’s squad has arguably lacked.

Strengths, Concerns, and the Fit at Celtic

While Tounekti’s raw attributes — speed and directness — are clear, there are questions about how quickly he can adapt to the physicality and relentless pace of Scottish football. Observers in Sweden have suggested this could be a hurdle, as it often is for players arriving from the Allsvenskan.

Supporters also know his stats don’t particularly stand out. Three goals and five assists in Sweden isn’t the sort of return that excites, especially given the fee involved. But every new player deserves backing, and Tounekti will get the support of the fans like every Celtic signing does. If he can stretch defences, add unpredictability, and give Rodgers a genuine option on either wing, then he could yet become a valuable addition.

Final Thoughts: A Calculated Gamble

The transfer dragged, the numbers don’t blow anyone away, and the board’s dithering has rightly left fans frustrated. But Tounekti does bring something Celtic have been missing — raw pace and directness. He’s not arriving as a superstar, but as a player with tools that could improve the side if he adapts quickly.

For now, it’s about patience and hope. The hope that, despite another slow and underwhelming window, this long-awaited addition can provide a spark where Celtic have too often looked flat.