Report: Celtic in talks with Greece international Georgios Giakoumakis; player impressed with Postecoglou

Add as preferred source on Google

Celtic are locked in talks to sign VVV-Venlo and Greece striker Georgios Giakoumakis, according to the Daily Record.

Giakoumakis, who finished last season as the Eredivisie’s top scorer, is said to be extremely impressed with Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou’s approach after a phone call between the pair. He’s also reportedly excited about the prospect of leading Celtic’s frontline [Daily Record].

The report states that a £2.5m fee should be enough for the Hoops to land the frontman. Given Venlo were relegated despite the player’s 26 goals last season, they could be easier to deal with.

The Record believes that Postecoglou has played a central role in the club’s pursuit of Giakoumakis. However, with Odsonne Edouard still at the club, it remains to be seen if any transfer is dependent on the Frenchman’s sale.

Celtic have already signed Japanese international Kyogo Furuhashi to add to their firepower. The move also comes after it was reported yesterday that another Celtic strike target, Thomas Henry, was closing in on a move to Gent [Daily Record].

Celtic need to make decision on Greece international immediately

Celtic can’t afford to be waiting much longer to make a decision on their Edouard replacement. Even if the Frenchman stays beyond the summer, we need another man in who’s ready to replace him.

Whilst the Henry transfer was said to be dependent on Edouard’s departure, Celtic can hopefully push forward with Giakoumakis regardless. After all, Henry was said to be worth as much as £7m [Scottish Sun]. That’s £4.5m more than Giakoumakis’ apparent transfer valuation.

As for the player himself, it would look a shrewd buy. Celtic would be latching onto Venlo’s relegation and taking smart advantage of it.

At 26, Giakoumakis is a late bloomer with regards to international football. He made his debut for Greece back in November 2020, and has made six appearances since. He has one goal to his name, coming in his debut against Cyprus.

The Greek forward can also play as a number 10, but thrived with VVV-Venlo as their main man last term. The striker appears to be in the same mould as Henry too, with strong aerial ability and hold-up play. Many of his goals last season came via headers.

It looks a smart investment if Celtic can get it over the line. If Edouard isn’t going to sign a new contract, we still need another striker in. Relying on Albian Ajeti and Leigh Griffiths is naive. Hopefully, Giakoumakis can prove to be that man.

In other news, Celtic don’t deserve stick for putting their own fans ahead of the opposition