Who is Stefan Johansen?
The midfielder turned 23 last week and has the impressive pedigree of most recent Celtic signings having been involved in international football since the age of 15.
Signing a creative midfielder has been a high on Neil Lennon’s wanted list with Johansen’s range of passing from midfield catching the eye.
Stromsgodset manager Ronnie Deila said: “There has been so much speculation about Stefan but it seems now he’ll get his move and it’s much deserved.
“I’m proud I have been allowed to work and develop him as a player. He’s the first player from Stromsgodset who has been good enough to get into the national team of Norway.
“He has kept improving since he got here. He has intensity in his defensive work from midfield and is calm with the ball – he has vision few others have.
“He’s blessed with a natural passing ability and was a creative factor in our team. He’s also a winner.”
Last year was undoubtedly a pivotal one in Johansen’s development as he earned the title of Norway’s Player of the Year and starred for Norway in the finals of the u-21 European Championships.
Norway had to overcome France in a play-off to reach the finals where they were drawn alongside Italy, England and hosts Italy.
A 3-1 win over England coupled with draws in the other two matches helped Norway to second place behind Italy, in the semi-final they lost 3-0 to eventual winners Spain.
Those performances earned Johansen a place in the full international side where he scored on his debut against Sweden in August.
While his international career was kicking off Johansen’s form helped Stromsgodset to win the 2013 Norwegian championship.
With just two goals from 27 league appearances the new bhoys main attribute is his range of passing with his left foot the main supplier of goals for Stromsgodset as shown in the video below.
The next step in his career will be in the hoops with the prospect of Champions League football the main attraction.
“Obviously, it’s Champions League,” he answered last night about the appeal of Celtic. “They are leading the Scottish Premiership, so it is a big attraction. I’m a passing player and Celtic try to play that way. If all goes to plan, I will have the medical and I’m very happy if it works out.”