Celtic transfer latest: Nothing imminent in or out despite rush of reports

By John McGinley

January 17, 2023

Ange Postecoglou said in his media conference today that there’s no change in the status of any of his Celtic squad, insisting nothing is currently imminent on the transfer front, in or out.

Speculation surrounding Giorgos Giakoumakis has increased in recent days with multiple outlets reporting that the Bhoys had accepted a bid for the forward.

But it seems there are still decisions to be made on that front, with Postecoglou stating today: “Michael [Nicholson, CEO] is dealing with all that stuff and, as we sit right here, nobody is leaving or coming.

“There is always going to be speculation around the place but from our perspective, at this moment there is nothing definite happening.”

Urawa Red Diamonds, Sampdoria and Atlanta United are said to be the potential destinations for the Greek striker, who has yet to make a definitive step forward when it comes to leaving Glasgow.

Giakoumakis was back to scoring form against Kilmarnock on Saturday, his first goal since October.

This season, like last, he’s struggled to displace Kyogo Furuhashi as Postecoglou’s go-to forward. However, he is getting plenty of minutes off the bench and started UEFA Champions League matches earlier in the campaign.

If he wants to get more regular starts elsewhere then it’d make sense to facilitate the move, rather than keep him here against his will.

Still, the manager has given zero indication there are any clashes behind the scenes and in fact has praised Giakoumakis for remaining focused on matches over the last few weeks.

It remains to be seen whether he will feature at home to St Mirren tomorrow but you wouldn’t rule anything out at this stage.

In other news, SFA & SPFL release statement after Hampden pitch troubles for Celtic and co.