Heart of Midlothian are bracing for a summer battle to retain Claudio Braga, with Celtic reportedly preparing a £5m offer for the Portuguese striker. The 26-year-old, who scored 17 goals and provided 6 assists in 44 appearances last season, was named Scottish Premiership Player of the Year after leading Heart of Midlothian to a final league standing of 1st in Premiership with 70 pts (21W-7D-5L from 33 games), finishing 1 point clear of Rangers.
Why is Braga in demand?
Braga’s rise from Norway’s lower leagues to Scottish football’s elite has been meteoric. His aerial dominance, clinical finishing and ability to outperform his xG made him Heart of Midlothian’ standout performer in 2025-26, a campaign where the Jambos scored 58 goals and conceded 28. Celtic see him as the ideal replacement for Daizen Maeda, with their attack needing reinforcement after Kelechi Iheanacho’s rejection and Johnny Kenny’s potential exit.
What’s next for Heart of Midlothian?
With Rangers already raiding Tynecastle for Cammy Devlin and Lawrence Shankland, Heart of Midlothian risk losing another key man. Lyon are also monitoring Braga, and Heart of Midlothian may demand up to £10m for their prized asset. The club currently have Ageu, Christian Borchgrevink, Craig Halkett, Stephen Kingsley and Alexandros Kyziridis sidelined, adding urgency to their transfer decisions.
How would this impact the Premiership?
A move to Celtic would reshape the title race. Braga’s arrival could address Celtic’s attacking gaps, while his departure would weaken Heart of Midlothian’ firepower as they aim to defend their crown. The Hoops’ slow summer window has frustrated fans, but landing Braga would signal serious intent.
