Celtic are looking to get things started with the signing of Camilo Duran. The forward is on the move and any concerns about the club’s lack of transfers and goal-scoring threat will be put to rest.
However, it’s not all good news. Duran’s arrival is crucial to give Martin O’Neill’s side room for a big sale, with the Boys poised to sign Daenen Maeda.
Football Fancast Verdict | |
|---|---|
reliability | Maeda has made it clear he needs to step up to a new level after Japan’s World Cup exit, and while it’s bad news for Celtic, Celtic will be looking to make the most of it. The forward only has one year left on his contract, so it’s almost now or never with the Hoops. |
finances | Celtic want to make a profit at the right price. That’s their condition as Premier League clubs swoop in. However, it is not yet known what the asking price will be. |
insight | The Japanese star proved to be the man for the big chance last season, scoring the winning goal late on against Hearts to seal the title, but it’s worth noting that he scored 33 goals the season before. |
impact | His departure will leave a huge hole to fill for Celtic, who are already struggling to find goals. They will be hoping that Duran will step up and become a star, but there is no denying the risks associated with selling Maeda. |
Premier League teams are starting to take notice of the Celtic forward, who could end his four-year spell in Scotland.
Celtic ready to release Maeda conditionally
Football Insider reports that Celtic are now ready to sell Maeda on the condition that he receives a significant fee.
The forward has publicly expressed his desire for a new challenge at the World Cup, which has put many Premier League teams on alert. Nottingham Forest, Fulham, Everton and Brentford are all interested in signing him, and Maeda himself has expressed a serious interest in moving to England this summer.
The ball is still in Celtic’s court, but it’s unclear how long that will last given the Japanese star only has one year left on his current contract.
Can Duran replace Maeda?
If there wasn’t enough pressure on Duran before, there certainly is now with Maeda creeping towards the exit door. Qarabag’s incoming forward scored five goals in 10 Champions League games last season and should have enough quality to make the step up in the Scottish Premiership.
Replacing the man who won the title with Celtic last season is a tough ask, but Duran is only 24 and is having an excellent season.
As far as first signings go, the addition of a forward would definitely be impressive business for the Bhoys, especially if Maeda leaves this summer.
