Celtic confirm signing of Swedish winger Benjamin Nygren on five-year deal

Celtic have confirmed the signing of Swedish winger Benjamin Nygren on a five-year deal.

The 23-year-old winger who plays for Danish Superliga club FC Nordsjælland emerged as one of the club’s top targets to strengthen their squad for next season’s title defence and European campaign.

Nygren, who can play on the left or right wing, scored 16 goals in 32 appearances last season and broke into the Sweden national team.

He made his international debut in March against Luxembourg, and Nygren went on to start Sweden’s next three friendlies, scoring against Hungary and Northern Ireland.

Nygren joins returning defender Kieran Tierney and Ross Doohan as recruits ahead of the new season, subject to international clearance.

Brendan Rodgers told the club’s website: “We’re delighted to have brought Benjamin to Celtic, and we’re all looking forward to working with him. He’s an exciting, quality player who will add to our attacking options in the squad.

“He’s a young player who’s already gained plenty of experience at club level, while his impressive performances last season also saw him gain his first caps for Sweden.

“Joining Celtic is the next step up in his career, and having spoken to him, he’s delighted to be here and is ready to take on the exciting challenges ahead at home and in Europe.

“He’s a player that I’m sure our supporters will enjoy watching, and it’s great to have him as part of our squad.”

Speaking to Celtic TV, Nygren said: “I feel amazing to have signed for Celtic, it’s so nice to be here. I’ve been looking forward to this so much.

“I’m a player who wants to create a lot of chances and go towards goal. I’m a link between the defence and the offence, and I can run a lot.

“I’m an offensive-minded player, but I also work hard and try to do my best in all parts of the game.

“I’m a very competitive person, and this is something that I love about Celtic. It’s a huge club and I love that. And, also, the winning mentality. I want to be with similar-minded people who also love to win.

“I had my breakthrough when I was very young, so even though I’m 23 years old, I have played over 200 games. I have a lot of experience and that’s what I want to bring.”