Youssouf Mulumbu shares his desire to hurt Rangers and make Celtic fans love him instantly

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Celtic snapped up Youssouf Mulumbu on a free transfer last week.

Celtic’s new signing Youssouf Mulumbu has told The Scottish Sun that he wants to become a big name for supporters – by scoring against Rangers.

The Bhoys may have lost striker Moussa Dembele on deadline day last week, but they also snapped up two new faces in Mulumbu and defender Filip Benkovic.

The deal for Mulumbu somewhat raised eyebrows; after all, the midfielder has been available on a free transfer for much of the summer, but Celtic only snapped him up on deadline day.

That left many fans feeling that the DR Congo international was a last resort, signed because Celtic couldn’t land their other top targets over the summer, such as John McGinn.

Supporters maybe wanted a bigger-name signing than Mulumbu, but it’s worth noting that he did star in Scottish football with Kilmarnock last season, playing a key role under Steve Clarke.

Brendan Rodgers will now hope to get the same out of Mulumbu, and with fans a little underwhelmed by his arrival, Mulumbu has discussed how he can become a hero at Parkhead.

Mulumbu has told The Scottish Sun that he can become a big name with big performances, and believes hurting rivals Rangers by scoring against them can make him a favourite with fans as soon as the ball hits the net.

Mulumbu added that there is great competition for places at Celtic and he must work hard to become a key player under Rodgers, but he is ready for the challenge – and is prepared to help the club’s youngsters too.

“Big names happen when you play well,” said Mulumbu. “I can be a big name in a few months if I score against Rangers and play good games. It’s all about performances. I know there is pressure on the team and club, but I’m ready for that. I have experience and ability to play. I’m ready and excited to be in the squad. I need to be patient, but my talks with the manager were really clear. I’m aware of all the players here.”

“It’s a big club and there is always competition. But if you show up well in training and on the pitch, you are going to get your chance. I’m here to help the young lads like Olivier Ntcham and Callum McGregor. I know Scott Brown very well, too. I can play different positions, which is an advantage for me. When the gaffer needs me, I’ll be ready,” he added.