Giorgos Giakoumakis is expected to depart Celtic this month. That is no secret at this point of time, after the Greek striker is believed to have failed to agree terms with the Hoops over a contract extension. His next destination still remains uncertain, even though the Scottish champions have already accepted a transfer bid to let him go in January.
Of course, it is not ideal to let a key player like Giakoumakis leave in the middle of the season. Especially when you consider that Kyogo is the only other recognised striker in the squad, while Daizen Maeda is capable of playing through the middle as well even though he has not looked at his best, whenever he has played in that role for Celtic.
Yet, it had looked like Giakoumakis was on the verge of sealing a Parkhead exit and joining Urawa Red Diamonds, after rumours broke out that Celtic have an agreement in place with the J League club. But now, it looks like the Greek striker is still considering his options.
As reported by Sky Sports, Celtic have agreed a deal with Urawa Red Diamonds and it is understood that the initial fee is £3 million. However, Giakoumakis is still weighing up his options amid interest from Atlanta United. The MLS side are yet to make a transfer bid though.
Another twist in Giakoumakis’ Celtic exit saga
Thus, it looks like it is still not certain that Giakoumakis will head for Japan, despite Celtic agreeing a deal with Urawa Red Diamonds. Now, it remains to be seen how things transpire.
On the other hand, one would hope that Celtic have plans in place in order to replace Giakoumakis in their squad. Otherwise, they will be left very thin up top, especially when you consider Kyogo’s injury history.
The club seem to have failed in their attempts to sign Cho Gue-sung though and it remains to be see who they end up targeting next. They have been linked with the likes of Kevin Nisbet and Szymon Wlodarczyk recently.