Celtic have held talks to sign Joel Piroe on loan from Leeds United, according to a report.
Martin O’Neill halted talk of Callum Wilson at his press conference on Saturday, but did say that progress had been made on business in general.
It’s been a January transfer window of striker rumours, with a new name seemingly appearing every day.
O’Neill has also indicated that the loan market could be a focus, given the need for immediate quality in the midst of an intense title race.
And Dutch striker Piroe would seemingly fit the bill, given further details given in the report.
Joel Piroe to Celtic on loan… initial thoughts?
Celtic hold talks for Leeds United’s Joel Piroe
Anthony Joseph reports that Leeds are ‘due to make a decision’, with the Hoops preferring a loan and prepared to meet the wage demands.
However, there is one slight complication…
READ MORE: Hibs hero says he ‘knows’ what Kieron Bowie is thinking about Celtic interest
Leeds are owned by 49ers Enterprises who, of course, are also the new owners of Rangers.
A major factor in the club’s decision is clearly whether they are prepared to strengthen a title rival of an affiliate club.
Ah, the joys of multi-club ownership…
Dutch-born striker Piroe was a star at Swansea City under Russell Martin before Leeds paid £10 million to sign him in 2023.
He scored 32 goals across two years in the Championship, but since their promotion to the Premier League, minutes have been harder to come by given the form of Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
A left-footed player, Piroe has been known to drop in and link up with his midfielders. He profiles similarly to Hoops striker Kelechi Iheanacho.
Last week, the 26-year-old officially switched his international allegiance to Suriname, for whom he qualifies through his father.
Martin O’Neill’s latest Celtic transfer update
Asked for the latest on Celtic’s striker search on Friday, O’Neill said: “We are in search of those elusive goalscorers. But we’re not the only team as well.
“Remarkably, I think we are [making progress].
“We’re definitely a bit closer. I dread these interviews. I really do I dread the questions coming up. I can’t wait until the 2nd or 3rd of February.”
“To me, it’s essential [that business is quick]. Absolutely essential. I think we know that.
“Obviously, we can’t change the squad around for the Bologna game. But all next week, we would like to have some people in for Hearts, if it was at all possible.”
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