NafisaFormer Brighton forward turned Dutch pundit Hans Kraay has revealed that Celtic scouts were in attendance this week to monitor Telstar’s red-hot striker Youssef El Kachati.
But while the Scottish champions are eyeing the prolific forward, they could face stiff competition from German sides Hannover and Schalke, as well as top-flight clubs in the Netherlands.
El Kachati, who has represented Morocco at Under-23 level, has enjoyed a sensational season in the Dutch Eerste Divisie. The former Sparta Rotterdam man grabbed his 19th goal of the campaign during Telstar’s play-off triumph over Den Bosch, underlining his status as one of the most lethal finishers in the league.
Kraay – who has a background with NAC Breda, De Graafschap, and a spell in management before entering TV – stressed the level of demand for El Kachati’s signature.
He stated: “Celtic were in the stands to watch Youssef El Kachati. I know that for sure.
He has been in contact with Hannover and he has been in contact with Schalke too.
He has a lot of interest from other clubs too, including ones in the Eredivisie. He can take his pick at the end of the season.
“I think he wants to go abroad (preferably Celtic due to Champions League football).”
Better Than Kyogo and Idah?
In stark contrast to Celtic’s current options, El Kachati’s goal return shines. Kyogo Furuhashi, once the darling of Parkhead, has seen his output dip this season with just 10 goals in all competitions during the 2024/25 campaign.
Adam Idah, brought in as a January boost, has managed 8 goals across league and cup appearances – a decent return, but still short of El Kachati’s 19-goal haul before the play-offs had even concluded.
Crucially, El Kachati has not only outscored both Kyogo and Idah, but has also showcased an ability to perform under pressure, with goals in crucial promotion clashes.
His consistency, clinical finishing and physical presence bring something Celtic’s current strikeforce arguably lacks – especially with Kyogo more comfortable in space and Idah still developing his game.
If Celtic are looking to refresh their attack with a striker who is already proving himself as a dependable match-winner, El Kachati is the standout candidate.
He’s younger, sharper, and currently operating at a higher level in terms of raw numbers. Should the Hoops land him, they’ll be adding a serious threat up front – one that could elevate their domestic dominance and provide a spark in European competition.
Nafisa
