Deal Sealed as Celtic Prepare to Confirm Third January Signing

Any lingering uncertainty surrounding Celtic’s move for Junior Adamu appears to have been settled, with confirmation emerging late on Sunday night that the deal is effectively complete.

Highly regarded German journalist Florian Plettenberg reported that Celtic and SC Freiburg have reached full agreement, describing the transfer as done. According to his update, a verbal agreement is already in place, the player is present, and the loan arrangement will be formally concluded on Monday. With the January transfer deadline falling later that evening, the timing strongly suggests an official announcement will follow before the window closes.

That said, Celtic supporters are well accustomed to the club’s approach when it comes to revealing new signings. Even when deals are wrapped up well in advance, announcements are often delayed, sometimes intentionally, and released later in the day or even during the evening. Whether this transfer is confirmed swiftly or held back may depend on whether further business is completed before the deadline passes.

Regardless of the timing, the key point is that Celtic have secured their target.

Adamu, 24, joins the Hoops on loan from Freiburg, having moved to the Bundesliga club from Red Bull Salzburg in 2023 in a deal reportedly worth around €5 million. His spell in Germany has not unfolded as planned, with the forward struggling to establish himself as a regular starter.

Limited opportunities and increased competition have seen him slide down Freiburg’s attacking hierarchy, making a temporary move away the logical next step in search of consistent game time. This season, Adamu has featured 18 times in all competitions, scoring two goals and providing one assist.

On the surface, those figures may not appear particularly impressive, but they require context. Adamu has often been deployed in brief substitute appearances and has rarely been trusted to lead the line for sustained periods. Without a clear run in the side, he has found it difficult to build rhythm or confidence.

From Celtic’s perspective, the appeal of Adamu goes beyond his raw statistics. The club are not bringing him in solely for goals, but for the different tactical dimension he offers. He is a mobile forward who can operate across multiple attacking positions, providing flexibility in the final third.

Compared to fellow loanee Tomas Cvancara and the more established Iheanacho, Adamu adds another option with a contrasting skill set. His movement and versatility could give the manager additional solutions during matches, particularly in tight or high-intensity fixtures.

However, this move also highlights a broader theme that has defined Celtic’s January transfer window. Rather than long-term planning, the focus has clearly been on short-term fixes. Adamu’s arrival is designed to address immediate needs and provide depth during a demanding run of games, rather than lay foundations for future seasons.

With two strikers now brought in on loan, Celtic appear to be prioritising short-term cover over permanent squad building. That approach has not gone unnoticed by supporters, many of whom have expressed frustration at what they perceive as a reactive strategy rather than a proactive one.

Still, with the season entering a crucial phase, having additional attacking options could prove vital. Injuries, suspensions, and fixture congestion mean that depth is essential, and Adamu’s arrival at least ensures the manager has another forward to call upon.

There are still a few formal steps to complete before the deal is officially confirmed. Registration paperwork must be finalised, and the customary Celtic TV interview—likely featuring Gerry McCulloch—will follow. But in practical terms, the transfer is already over the line.

Celtic’s Tomas Cvancara celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the William Hill Premiership match at Celtic Park, Glasgow. Picture date: Sunday February 1, 2026.

Celtic identified the need for another striker ahead of the deadline, and they have addressed it. Whether Adamu’s arrival is enough to make a meaningful impact, or simply serves as another reminder of how late and hurried this transfer window has been, is a discussion that will no doubt continue among the fanbase.

In addition to the Adamu deal, Celtic are also expected to finalise the permanent signing of Joel Mvuka. The winger reportedly completed his medical on Sunday, with a move to Glasgow set to cost around £3 million. If completed, that deal would add another piece to Celtic’s January business as the window draws to a close.

For now, though, the headline is clear: Celtic have secured Junior Adamu, and an official announcement appears imminent.

Hogh alternative as Celtic target late-window swoop for £5m goal machine – report

Celtic may yet make a dramatic late move in the final hours of the transfer window, with reports suggesting the Scottish champions are considering an inter-league deal for Motherwell forward Tawanda Maswanhise following his impressive run of form this season.

The 22-year-old has emerged as one of the most dangerous attackers in the Scottish Premiership, currently sitting joint-top of the scoring charts with 11 league goals. He shares that tally with Celtic winger Benjamin Nygren and Hearts striker Lawrence Shankland, although Shankland’s injury absence means Maswanhise is well placed to take sole possession of the Golden Boot race.

While his performances have been central to Motherwell’s strong campaign, those goals may soon be scored at Parkhead rather than Fir Park. Reports suggest Celtic are closely monitoring the situation and could look to prise the Zimbabwe international away in a late-window swoop.

Celtic monitoring Maswanhise as Høgh alternative

According to a report from SportsBoom, Celtic have identified Maswanhise as a potential fallback option should they fail in their pursuit of Bodø/Glimt striker Kasper Høgh. The Hoops are believed to be weighing up their options as the deadline approaches, with Maswanhise now under serious consideration.

Høgh has attracted significant attention after a string of standout performances in European competition. The Danish forward featured prominently in Bodø/Glimt’s Champions League campaign, helping his side earn draws against Slavia Prague, Tottenham Hotspur and Borussia Dortmund. His reputation soared further after scoring twice against Manchester City and netting a crucial winner against Atlético Madrid earlier this week, a goal that kept his club alive in the competition.

Those performances have inevitably drawn interest from elsewhere, with Celtic facing competition from Norwich City. The Championship side are reportedly keen to bring Høgh to Carrow Road, particularly with star striker Josh Sargent considering a return to Major League Soccer. With Norwich understood to have already lodged an offer, Celtic could be forced to look closer to home for reinforcements.

That scenario has elevated Maswanhise into a prime alternative. His consistent output for Motherwell has not gone unnoticed, and Celtic are thought to be impressed by his development, physicality, and composure in front of goal.

Rangers also tracking Motherwell star

Celtic are not alone in admiring Maswanhise. Glasgow rivals Rangers have also been monitoring his progress, though current indications suggest the Hoops are leading the race. Any deal would not come cheaply, however, with Motherwell believed to be holding out for a fee in the region of £5 million.

Convincing Motherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou to part with his leading scorer at this stage of the season would be no easy task. Maswanhise has been central to their attacking play and remains under contract, giving the Lanarkshire club a strong negotiating position.

Maswanhise’s impact on Motherwell’s season

Despite much of the title conversation focusing on the Old Firm and Hearts’ unexpected challenge, Motherwell have quietly put together a highly competitive campaign. Their defensive solidity has been a major factor, with goalkeeper Calum Ward currently boasting the highest number of clean sheets in the division, contributing to one of the league’s strongest back lines.

At the other end of the pitch, Maswanhise’s goals have been vital. His ability to score in crucial moments has kept Motherwell firmly in the mix, and while they currently sit 11 points off the summit, the gap to Celtic is far smaller. With just five points separating the two sides, and only seven between Motherwell and a Champions League qualification spot, the Steelmen remain very much in contention.

That context may be playing into Celtic’s thinking. By signing Maswanhise, they would not only add a proven goal scorer to their squad but also potentially weaken a direct rival in the race for European places. Removing Motherwell’s main attacking threat could blunt any late push from Fir Park as the season enters its decisive phase.

A calculated gamble for Celtic

Maswanhise’s background also adds to his appeal. A graduate of Leicester City’s youth system, he has steadily rebuilt his career north of the border, showing maturity and adaptability in Scottish football. At 22, he offers both immediate impact and long-term value.

For Celtic, a £5 million investment would represent a significant outlay but one that could pay dividends if Maswanhise can translate his domestic form into success at a higher level. With European commitments and a demanding fixture list ahead, adding another reliable source of goals could prove crucial.

As the clock ticks down on the transfer window, Celtic’s next move may depend on how their pursuit of Høgh develops. If that deal proves unattainable, Maswanhise could quickly become their primary target. Whether Motherwell are willing to sell, and whether the player himself is ready to make the leap to Glasgow, remain the key questions in what could yet become one of the window’s most intriguing late deals.

Celtic seal full deal for forward who is set to travel to Glasgow

Celtic have reportedly reached a complete agreement to secure the signing of a highly rated forward, with the player now preparing to travel to Glasgow ahead of completing his move to Parkhead. The deal represents another statement of intent from the Scottish giants as they look to inject fresh quality into their attacking ranks and reignite their season.

The forward’s rise has been anything but straightforward. After showing promise earlier in his career, his breakthrough moment arrived during a productive spell that caught the attention of clubs across Europe. His performances earned him a move to French third-tier side Rouen, where he quickly established himself as a standout figure.

At Rouen, the attacker flourished, becoming a key player and delivering consistently impressive displays that marked him out as one of the division’s most exciting talents. His ability to influence matches with goals, movement, and creativity made him indispensable, and it was not long before clubs from higher-profile leagues began to take notice.

That surge in form convinced Italian side Frosinone to make their move in January 2024, securing his services for a reported fee of £250,000. While the transfer initially flew under the radar, it would soon prove to be one of the smartest pieces of business in Serie B.

Since arriving in Italy, the forward has gone from strength to strength. He has quickly adapted to the demands of Serie B, showcasing his technical quality, intelligence, and composure in front of goal. With eight goals and two assists to his name so far this season, he has emerged as one of the league’s most effective attacking outlets.

More importantly, his contributions have played a central role in Frosinone’s impressive campaign. The club have lost just twice all season, displaying remarkable consistency and resilience, and currently sit at the top of the Serie B table. With momentum firmly on their side, Frosinone are now genuine contenders for promotion back to Italy’s top flight after spending two years away.

The forward’s influence extends beyond the numbers. His presence has lifted those around him, helping to drive performances in crucial moments and providing Frosinone with a reliable attacking focal point. Whether operating through the middle or drifting into wider areas, his movement and work rate have given opposition defences constant problems.

Celtic’s decision to move decisively for the player reflects both his rapid development and the club’s desire to address areas of concern within their own squad. While the Hoops have shown flashes of quality this season, inconsistency has hampered their progress domestically and in Europe, prompting the need for reinforcements capable of making an immediate impact.

By completing a full agreement ahead of the transfer window deadline, Celtic have ensured the forward will have time to settle into his new surroundings and begin contributing as soon as possible. His impending flight to Glasgow signals the final steps of the move, with medical checks and official announcements expected to follow.

At Parkhead, expectations will be high. Celtic supporters will be eager to see whether the forward can replicate the form that made him such a key figure in Italy. The Scottish Premiership presents a different challenge, but his adaptability and recent trajectory suggest he has the tools to succeed.

Manager Martin O’Neill will be hoping the forward can provide a spark in the final third, offering both goals and creativity while adding competition for places in the attacking unit. With important fixtures on the horizon and European ambitions still alive, Celtic are counting on the new arrival to help shift momentum in their favour.

For the player himself, the move represents another significant step forward in a career that has gathered pace rapidly over the past 18 months. From emerging as a standout performer in the lower leagues to becoming a driving force in a promotion-chasing Serie B side, his journey has been defined by steady progress and resilience.

Now, as he prepares to test himself in Glasgow, the opportunity awaits to make an immediate impression on one of the biggest stages in Scottish football. If he can mirror the influence he has had at Frosinone, Celtic may well have secured a forward capable of playing a pivotal role in shaping the remainder of their season and beyond.

Trusted insiders reveal major double Celtic transfer bombshell

When transfer news involving Celtic is delivered by Stephen McGowan or Mark Hendry, it tends to land differently. Their reputations have been built quietly, through accuracy rather than volume, and through restraint rather than speculation. Neither journalist is known for chasing rumours or amplifying noise. When they report progress, it usually means something tangible is happening behind the scenes.

That context is crucial as the January transfer window enters its final stretch. Celtic fans have learned to approach most links with caution. January often brings a flood of names, fleeting excitement, and little in the way of concrete outcomes. This time, however, the significance lies not just in the players being mentioned, but in the credibility of the voices bringing the information forward.

McGowan moved quickly to clarify Celtic’s interest in Fares Ghedjemis following initial reporting from Sky Sports. His update went beyond casual interest. He referenced active discussions between Celtic and Frosinone, with the Italian club already assessing replacement options and contract timelines factoring into negotiations. That level of detail suggests more than passive scouting. It indicates Celtic have tested the conditions of a deal and are actively exploring its feasibility.

At the same time, Hendry has advanced the Damir Redzic narrative further than anyone else. Writing on his Substack, he outlined a situation that goes beyond admiration or background monitoring. Talks with DAC Dunajská Streda have taken place, with transfer fees expected to be discussed. The framing of Redzic as a live option rather than a long-term project points to urgency rather than planning for the distant future.

Together, the two reports reveal something important about Celtic’s approach. This is not a scattergun attempt to see what sticks. It is a focused response to a clearly identified weakness. The right side of the attack has been flagged internally as an area needing reinforcement, and the club are now attempting to address it decisively rather than deferring the problem to another window.

The issue has been evident for some time. Since Nicolas Kühn’s departure, Celtic have lacked a natural right-sided outlet capable of consistently stretching defences. Yang Hyun-jun has made progress. His work rate has improved, his defensive contribution has grown, and there have been moments where his technical ability shines. Yet consistency remains elusive. In matches where Celtic need sustained pressure from wide areas, flashes of quality have not been enough.

That imbalance has had tactical consequences. Opponents have become comfortable overloading the left flank, knowing the danger is greater there. Full-backs are able to narrow their positioning, reducing space centrally. Celtic often dominate possession without forcing defensive structures to break. In European competition, where space is limited and transitions are sharp, that lack of directness has been particularly costly.

Both Ghedjemis and Redzic offer different solutions to the same structural problem. Ghedjemis has shown in Serie B that he can attack space aggressively, contribute goals from wide positions, and carry the ball with intent. Redzic provides versatility, capable of operating across the front line and influencing matches both from the wing and in more central roles. Neither profile suggests excess or indulgence. Both are functional signings aimed at restoring balance and unpredictability.

What also emerges from McGowan and Hendry’s reporting is a counterpoint to the idea that Celtic have been paralysed by indecision this window. The lack of visible movement has undoubtedly fuelled frustration. Only Julian Araujo and Tomas Cvancara have arrived, both on loan, and neither directly addresses the right-wing issue. But silence does not always equal inactivity. Some deals take time, particularly in January when selling clubs are reluctant, players hesitate over mid-season moves, and valuations fluctuate rapidly.

The winter window is unforgiving. Clubs defending promotion pushes or fighting relegation are resistant to selling. Agents leverage interest. Timelines compress. Celtic have allowed themselves limited margin for error, but the emergence of club-level talks suggests an awareness that waiting any longer risks missing the opportunity entirely.

Martin O’Neill’s recent comments align closely with this shift. He has not demanded volume signings. Instead, he has emphasised the need for players who can change games immediately—individuals who can beat opponents one-on-one, disrupt defensive shapes, and alter momentum. That description narrows the field significantly and aligns neatly with the profiles currently under discussion.

Credibility remains central to how this story should be interpreted. McGowan has a long track record of accurately reflecting Celtic’s internal thinking, particularly at board level. When he reports that discussions are ongoing, history suggests they usually are. Hendry has similarly established himself as someone close to negotiations once talks move into the territory of fees and structure rather than scouting reports.

None of this guarantees a successful outcome. January deals collapse for countless reasons. Wage demands can derail progress. Competing clubs can enter late. Selling sides can harden their stance. But what it does confirm is that this is not speculative chatter. There is substance beneath the reporting.

Supporters are right to reserve judgment until signings are finalised. Experience has earned that scepticism. But it is also fair to recognise when credible reporting points toward genuine movement rather than recycled rumour.

Celtic’s needs are immediate. The upcoming fixture list will demand width, speed, and the ability to unlock games when control alone is insufficient. These are not abstract requirements for next season. They are pressing concerns that must be addressed now if the campaign is to meet expectations.

McGowan and Hendry are not manufacturing optimism. They are documenting a process that appears to have shifted from observation to execution. Whether that culminates in the arrival of Ghedjemis, Redzic, or another target entirely remains to be seen.

What is different, for the first time this window, is that the narrative feels grounded. The speculation has been replaced by signals of action. And as deadlines approach, that distinction matters more than ever.

Celtic open late negotiations for £6m striker tipped to be the next Giakoumakis

Celtic appear to be edging toward another late attacking move in the January transfer window, with discussions reportedly under way for a striker valued at around £6 million — a forward many believe could replicate the impact once made by Giorgos Giakoumakis at Parkhead.

While it may be premature to draw firm conclusions, there were encouraging signs from Celtic’s most recent attacking addition, Tomas Cvancara, during Sunday’s dramatic 2–2 draw in Edinburgh. The Czech forward, who had not featured competitively since November, showed inevitable signs of rust early on but steadily worked himself into the contest.

Standing at 6ft 3in, Cvancara offered a physical presence that Celtic have often lacked this season. He came close to opening his account when a powerful header rattled the woodwork, and moments later produced an impressive surging run through the Hearts defence before teeing up Yang Hyun-jun for Celtic’s second goal. It was a snapshot of what the striker could offer when fully fit and match-sharp.

However, optimism surrounding his performance was tempered after interim manager Martin O’Neill suggested the striker was withdrawn shortly after the hour mark due to hamstring discomfort. With Celtic already stretched in key areas, the prospect of another injury — particularly at centre-forward — is far from ideal.

Even if Cvancara’s issue proves minor, there is a growing sense that Celtic’s attacking depth remains insufficient as they attempt to reel in Hearts at the top of the Premiership table.

Celtic step up striker pursuit late in the window

The need for an additional striker has been a recurring theme at Celtic for more than a year. The exits of Kyogo Furuhashi and Adam Idah left a void that has not yet been convincingly filled, and the club’s current options remain limited.

Callum Osmand continues his recovery on the sidelines, while Kelechi Iheanacho has only recently returned from injury and is still working his way back to peak condition. Shin Yamada, meanwhile, has been sent out on loan after failing to find the net throughout the campaign.

Cvancara’s arrival on loan was widely viewed as a step in the right direction, but few believe it should be the final move in Celtic’s January business. Reinforcements are still required if the club are serious about sustaining a title push.

Within Scotland, Motherwell forward Tawanda Maswanhise has been linked as a potential domestic option. Yet Celtic’s recruitment team also appear to be casting the net wider, exploring opportunities beyond the Premiership.

According to reports from Football Insider, Celtic have entered discussions over a possible move for Bodo/Glimt striker Kasper Høgh. The Danish forward is said to be attracting interest from Championship side Norwich City, managed by former Rangers boss Philippe Clement, setting up a potential transfer tussle.

The report claims that O’Neill is keen to secure another striker before the deadline, with Høgh believed to be available for a fee in the region of £6 million.

A familiar Celtic striker blueprint

There was a period not so long ago when Celtic possessed one of the most formidable strike partnerships in Scottish football. Under Ange Postecoglou, Kyogo and Giorgos Giakoumakis offered contrasting but complementary profiles, giving Celtic tactical flexibility and relentless attacking threat.

Kyogo’s pace, movement, and finishing made him the primary choice, but Giakoumakis provided an invaluable alternative. Strong, aggressive, and dominant in the air, the Greek striker was often devastating from the bench and pushed Kyogo relentlessly for a starting role.

At 6ft 1in, Giakoumakis gave Celtic a traditional focal point, something that has been noticeably absent since his departure. He arrived at Parkhead from Dutch side VVV-Venlo after a breakout season in which he scored an astonishing 29 goals in 33 games during the 2020/21 campaign.

Before that spell in the Netherlands, Giakoumakis had never been particularly prolific. Yet that surge in confidence carried over to Glasgow, where he netted 26 goals in 57 appearances for Celtic, despite starting fewer than half of those matches.

His partnership and competition with Kyogo proved short-lived but highly effective — and it is precisely that type of dynamic Celtic appear keen to recreate.

Why Kasper Høgh fits the Giakoumakis mould

Høgh, like Giakoumakis before him, did not begin his career as a reliable goalscorer. Early spells at clubs such as Randers and Aalborg produced modest returns, with the Dane managing just four goals during those periods.

His fortunes changed dramatically following his move to Bodo/Glimt. Since arriving in Norway, Høgh has transformed into one of the Eliteserien’s most dangerous forwards, scoring 42 goals in 82 appearances across all competitions.

His development has been particularly striking over the past two seasons. Across the last two league campaigns combined, Høgh has found the net 29 times, with his form truly exploding from 2024 onwards.

One of his most eye-catching performances came recently in European competition, where he scored twice as Bodo/Glimt stunned Manchester City with a remarkable 3–1 victory in the Champions League. That display underlined his ability to perform on big occasions against elite opposition.

Standing 6ft 1in tall, Høgh is a classic number nine — strong, direct, and highly efficient in front of goal. His playing style mirrors much of what Giakoumakis brought to Celtic: an ability to occupy defenders, dominate aerial duels, and convert chances with minimal touches.

Statistically, the comparison is compelling. During the most recent Eliteserien season, Høgh scored 17 league goals while averaging just over 23 touches per game, highlighting his efficiency. He also won more than half of his aerial duels, reinforcing his reputation as a physical presence.

Giakoumakis produced similar numbers in his debut Scottish Premiership campaign, scoring 13 league goals from an average of just 16 touches per match and winning around 51% of his aerial battles. The parallels between the two forwards are difficult to ignore.

Tactical value for Martin O’Neill

For O’Neill, adding a striker like Høgh would provide crucial tactical flexibility. Celtic have often struggled when asked to break down deep-lying defences or when games become physical and congested. A powerful central striker capable of holding the ball up, winning headers, and finishing efficiently would offer a valuable alternative approach.

Høgh’s presence would also ease the burden on Cvancara, allowing the Czech forward time to build fitness without being rushed into an overloaded role. It would give Celtic genuine competition at number nine — something that has been sorely lacking since Giakoumakis’ departure.

Moreover, Høgh’s recent improvement in chance conversion suggests a striker growing in confidence and maturity. In the latest season, his goal conversion rate climbed significantly while the number of big chances missed dropped sharply, an indication of improved decision-making and composure.

A move that could define Celtic’s window

With the transfer deadline fast approaching, Celtic’s recruitment strategy appears to be reaching a decisive phase. Supporters have grown increasingly vocal about the club’s perceived lack of ambition in recent windows, and another attacking addition could go a long way toward restoring belief.

While £6 million represents a sizeable outlay, it could prove a shrewd investment if Høgh adapts successfully to Scottish football. Giakoumakis arrived with far less fanfare and went on to become one of the most effective forwards in the league.

Should Celtic succeed in landing the Danish striker, it would not only bolster their title challenge but also signal a return to a proven recruitment formula — identifying a physically dominant forward on an upward trajectory and giving him the platform to thrive.

As Celtic look to close the gap on Hearts and regain momentum in the title race, securing a Giakoumakis-style striker may be exactly the statement move O’Neill needs to round off the window.