Celtic have been much busier in the ongoing January transfer window, both in terms of incomings and outgoings, than most people would have expected. The club have completed four signings already, bringing in Yuki Kobayashi, Alistair Johnston, Tomoki Iwata and Oh Hyeon-gyu. On the other hand, Josip Juranovic has left to join Union Berlin, Scott Robertson has ended up at Fleetwood Town and there could be more exits to come.
One player who looks almost certain to leave is Giorgos Giakoumakis. The Greek striker has been linked with a move away for weeks and Oh seems to have been brought in as his replacement.
There have been a lot of twists and turns on his path out of Parkhead though. Earlier, rumours had suggested that an offer from Urawa Red Diamonds had been accepted and Giakoumakis looked set for a move to Japan. But now, it appears that that move is off and he could be headed for the MLS instead.
As tweeted out by Giannis Chorianopoulos, Giakoumakis is really close to signing for Atlanta United from Celtic. The clubs are close to a deal.
❗️ Giakoumakis is really close to sign for Atlanta United from Celtic. Clubs are close to a deal 🟢🔴@CelticFC @ATLUTD #Celtic #CelticFC #ATLUTD
— Giannis Chorianopoulos (@choria80) January 25, 2023
Celtic are close to agreeing another transfer deal
It goes without saying that Giakoumakis leaving in the middle of the season would be a blow for Celtic. The Greek striker was one of the key reasons behind their Premiership triumph last season and has proven himself to be a reliable goalscorer in Scotland.
It will be interesting to see if Oh can replace him. There is no doubt about the South Korean striker’s talent and potential, but this will be his first taste of European football and he might need some time to adjust.
The best case scenario would have been for Giakoumakis to stay until the end of the season but that option seems to be completely off the table, with a move to Atlanta United close to being agreed.