Bolton Wanderers are closing in on a move for Swedish-based midfielder Jesper Ceesay after agreeing a six-figure fee with IFK Norrköping.
The 23-year-old Gambia international, valued at around €800,000 (£700,000), is now in talks over personal terms as Wanderers continue to reshape their squad for a fresh League One promotion push.
Ceesay Set for Sixth Summer Signing at the Toughsheet
Ian Evatt’s side have wasted little time in the transfer market and Ceesay looks poised to become their sixth new arrival, following the additions of Sam Dalby, Teddy Sharman-Lowe, Charlie Warren, Richard Taylor and Xavier Simons.
Reports in Sweden suggest Bolton will pay around £350,000 to prise the midfielder away from the Allsvenskan outfit, with just six months left on his contract. IFK Norrköping sporting director Magni Fannberg confirmed an agreement had been reached, saying:
“Jesper has wanted to make a move abroad for a while and it is true that we have agreed with a club, I will not comment on which one it is.”
Ceesay’s omission from IFK’s squad for their recent match against Djurgården raised eyebrows, especially after the club alleged ‘personal attacks’ in a strongly worded post-match statement. The tension has since eased thanks to the intervention of Swedish Elite Football, the governing body for Sweden’s top two divisions.
Despite the off-field noise, Ceesay has made a strong impact on the pitch this season. He has featured in eight league games, totalling 769 minutes, and scored once from six attempts. His ball-winning stats—both on the ground and in the air—alongside solid passing numbers, have underlined his value.
A naturally left-footed player, Ceesay has also deputised at left-back, bringing useful versatility to Wanderers’ squad. He has made over 60 top-flight appearances in Sweden, split between his current club and former side AIK, and represents a player with both technical skill and athleticism.
Bolton have been busy following last season’s near miss in the play-offs, and Ceesay’s potential arrival adds further depth to the middle of the park. The club’s midfield options now include returning players like George Thomason and Josh Sheehan, with competition for starting places expected to be fierce when the new campaign kicks off.
Writer’s View
Jesper Ceesay looks like a smart acquisition for a Bolton side that have learned from previous promotion failures. At just 23, he offers a blend of experience and growth potential—valuable traits for a club pushing for Championship football.
His adaptability and strong duelling stats should suit Ian Evatt’s possession-focused approach, and if personal terms are agreed quickly, he could be integrated in time for pre-season preparations. Bolton have shown real intent in this window, and Ceesay’s signing would underline that momentum.
