Celtic are finally set to get their business underway by signing Camilo Duran. The forward is on his way and will end concerns over the club’s lack of transfers and lack of goalscoring threats.
That’s not to say it’s all good news, though. Duran’s arrival is crucially set to free up room for a major sale in Martin O’Neill’s squad and the Bhoys are now ready to cash in on Daizen Maeda.
Football FanCast’s Verdict | |
|---|---|
Credibility | Maeda made it clear after Japan’s World Cup exit that he needs to step up to a new level and whilst that’s bad news for Celtic, they’re set to take full advantage and cash-in. The forward has just one year left on his contract, so it is almost now or never for the Hoops. |
Finances | Celtic want to cash in at the right price. That’s their condition as Premier League clubs come swooping in. Just how much that asking price sits at remains to be seen, however. |
Insight | The Japanese star proved to be the man for the big occasion last season, scoring a late winner against Hearts to seal the title and it’s worth noting that he scored 33 goals in the season prior. |
Impact | His exit would leave a gaping hole for Celtic to fill at a time when they’re already struggling to find goals. They will hope to see Duran step up and become an instant star, but there’s no denying the risk involved in selling Maeda. |
Premier League sides are beginning to converge on the Celtic forward, who could be bringing an end to his time in Scotland after an excellent four-year spell.
Celtic ready to sell Maeda on one condition
As reported by Football Insider, Celtic are now ready to sell Maeda on the condition that they receive a good fee that represents good value for money.
The forward publicly stated his desire for a new challenge at the World Cup and that has put a number of Premier League sides on red alert. Nottingham Forest, Fulham, Everton and Brentford are all interested in his signature and Maeda, himself, is seriously interested in a move to England this summer.
The ball is still in Celtic’s court, but it’s unclear how long that will last given that the Japan star has just one year left on his current deal.
Can Duran replace Maeda?
If there wasn’t enough pressure on Duran before, there certainly is now as Maeda creeps towards the exit door. The incoming Qarabag forward scored five goals in 10 Champions League games last season and should have more than enough quality to step up in the Scottish Premiership.
Whilst it will be a tough ask to replace the man who secured the title for Celtic last season, Duran is still just 24 years old and coming off the back of an excellent season.
As far as first signings go, the forward’s arrival is undoubtedly impressive business from the Bhoys – especially if Maeda does depart this summer.
