Celtic are said to be closing in on the signing of a striker as they look to kick-start their summer transfer window. It has been a frustrating wait for Hoops fans for the first signing of the summer, although one could count Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain as a new signing, given his previous contract did expire.
But any desire to do so would only show how desperate Celtic fans are for some transfer business this summer, with the club so far failing to follow through on its promise to back Martin O'Neill.
There are indications of progress, though, and one new signing could be close to being done.
Camilo Duran closes in on Celtic arrival
According to the Glasgow Times, Celtic are closing in on Qarabag frontman Camilo Duran, who has been linked with a Parkhead switch for much of this summer.
Duran scored five Champions League goals last season, and he is seen as a talent who is still yet to meet his potential at age 24. The striker has a proven ability to score against big clubs at Champions League level, scoring against Newcastle United among others, and his pace and physical ability should suit the Scottish Premiership well.
According to the report, Celtic have now agreed terms with the player, and they are expected to meet Qarabag's valuation with their second bid. The Hoops reportedly bid around £1.7million initially, but they were told no less than £3million would get the job done.
The Bhoys are now expected to meet that valuation, and Qarabag will make a hefty profit on their £200,000 investment.
Duran's representatives were said to have been in Glasgow last week to discuss terms, and it now looks likely the striker will be the first new face to link up with the Hoops for pre-season.
Duran a smart move from Celtic
Celtic fans will be delighted to see business finally getting done at Parkhead, and this feels like a smart move. The Bhoys have glaring needs at the top of the pitch, with only one striker currently on their books, and Duran fills one of those holes for a very affordable asking price, especially when you account for the likely incomings this summer.
To find a striker who has scored pretty freely in the Champions League for a side who are usually outgunned, as Celtic will be if they qualify, and sign him for just £3million - it feels like a steal, even if it's a club-record sale for Qarabag.
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