Report: Israeli media say Celtic target Liel Abada is Glasgow-bound, 4-year deal agreed

By Euan Davidson

July 13, 2021

Celtic target Liel Abada could sign for the Bhoys as early as tomorrow, according to reports in Israeli media.

The Maccabi Petah Tikvah winger was named in a Sun report last night. A client of agent Dudu Dahan, Abada is a dangerous wide man who has already made his debut for Israel.

Israeli outlet ONE state that plans are already in motion to get the attacker to Celtic Park. The outlet say that Abada has agreed a four-year deal, with Celtic to spend €4m on the winger.

ONE state the deal “should close in the next 24 hours”, despite interest from Belgian side Club Brugge.

It’s some pretty rapid movement from the Hoops. It also addresses a very key need in the squad. With James Forrest missing much of last season, and Karamoko Dembele still developing, some depth is definitely needed on the right flank.

Abada has just had an excellent season in the Israeli top-flight. In 38 outings, the right-sided winger scored 13 and assisted a further four [Transfermarkt].

With the future of Marian Shved hitherto shrouded in mystery, this seems a clear indication that the Ukrainian will leave Celtic. Although right-footed, Abada can seemingly play on either side, which opens up options for Ange Postecoglou.

Some swift business for Celtic with Liel Abada?

Given how many transfer “targets” have seemed close to joining Celtic recently, we’re not counting our chickens quite yet. However, this report from Abada’s homeland is bound to offer some encouragement.

It points at the continuation of a previous transfer policy; signing lesser-known young talents with the hope of developing them into star players. The examples are obvious, but it’s still a risky tactic, as we’ve seen with the likes of Vakoun Bayo, Patryk Klimala and – of course – Marian Shved.

Some will also question the Dahan connection. Some supporters have suggested that if in doubt, ring up the super agent. Dahan has brought us Ismaila Soro most recently, though, which is solid enough evidence that he can spot a player.

Scepovic aside, perhaps.

Whatever the case, we’re on the cusp of landing a player who, at just 19, is a full international, and is wanted across Europe. What could possibly go wrong…?

READ MORE: Now, this would be fun…