CELTIC FC REACH AGREEMENT WITH KV Kortrijk TO RE-SIGN FORMER YOUTH CLUB DEFENDER– FABRIZIO ROMANO CONFIRMS

Celtic agree deal to re-sign Anderson from Kortrijk

Celtic FC have reached an agreement with KV Kortrijk to re-sign former academy defender Matthew Anderson, according to reports from transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano.

The 21-year-old left-back is set for a return to Parkhead less than a year after leaving the Scottish champions on a permanent transfer. Discussions between the two clubs are understood to be at an advanced stage, with only final contractual details to be resolved before the move is formally completed.

Anderson’s journey from academy to return

Anderson joined Celtic’s academy system at the age of 13 and quickly progressed through

 the ranks, earning a reputation as one of the club’s most promising young defenders. In June 2020, he signed his first professional contract, marking a significant step in his development.

Despite his promise, first-team opportunities proved elusive. Anderson became a regular for Celtic’s B team, where his attacking style, energy down the flank and defensive awareness stood out. In January 2023, the club showed faith in his potential by handing him a long-term contract extension.

However, the pathway to the senior squad remained limited, leading to a loan move that would shape the next phase of his career.

Development in Austria

In 2023, Anderson joined Austrian side Admira Wacker on loan as part of a development partnership. The move provided him with consistent first-team football in the Austrian 2. Liga.

Over two seasons, Anderson made 44 appearances, scoring two goals and registering eight assists. He featured primarily as a left-back but was also deployed in a more advanced wing-back role, demonstrating tactical flexibility and attacking intent.

His performances drew attention for their consistency and maturity, with observers noting his improved decision-making and ability to influence matches in the final third.

Move to Belgium and breakthrough season

Following his successful loan spell, Anderson completed a permanent transfer to KV Kortrijk in 2025, signing a contract that runs until June 2028.

Since arriving in Belgium, he has become an important figure in the squad. During the 2025-26 season, Anderson has featured regularly as a left wing-back, contributing both defensively and offensively as Kortrijk compete in the top division.

His ability to provide width, deliver crosses and support attacking play has been a notable aspect of his performances, while his defensive discipline has continued to develop.

Celtic’s renewed interest

Celtic’s decision to pursue Anderson’s return is understood to be influenced by several factors. The club are seeking to strengthen their options at left-back and view Anderson as a player who combines familiarity with the club’s philosophy and valuable experience gained abroad.

Re-signing a former academy product also aligns with a broader strategy of integrating players who have developed within the club’s system. Anderson’s progress in Austria and Belgium is seen as evidence of his readiness to compete at a higher level.

Supporter reaction

Reaction among supporters has been mixed, with many expressing surprise at the potential return while others have welcomed the move.

@HoopsFaithful67: “We let him go and now we’re bringing him back? Football never stops surprising.”

@CelticPulse: “He’s improved massively abroad. This could turn out to be a smart move.”

@ParkheadVoice: “Always rated him. Hopefully he gets his chance this time.”

@BhoyAnalytics: “44 games and 10 goal contributions from left-back  that’s real development.”

@UltraHoops: “He has to come in ready to contribute straight away.”

@KortrijkInsider: “Big loss for us if he leaves. He’s been one of our most consistent players.”

What happens next?

An official announcement is expected once the final elements of the agreement are completed. Details regarding the transfer fee and the length of Anderson’s prospective contract have yet to be disclosed.

If the move is finalised, Anderson will return to Celtic aiming to make his senior debut for the club where his career began. For Celtic, the signing would represent both a reinforcement of their defensive options and a renewed opportunity for a former academy prospect to fulfil his potential at first-team level.