So far this winter, Celtic have only made two additions to Martin O'Neill's squad. Both of them have been brought in on loan deals, as it looks like the club are more comfortable making temporary moves with the Northern Irishman only in charge until the end of the campaign. But now, reports have emerged suggesting that the Hoops are closing in on their first permanent signing of the window.
Celtic have been linked with quite a few wingers in recent times. They are even believed to have made approaches for the likes of Jesurun Rak-Sakyi and Damir Redzic.
But it is somebody else that they look set to sign before the winter window closes. As reported by the Daily Mail (via CeltsAreHere), a £6.5 million deal for French winger Fares Ghedjemis is nearing completion.
This would represent a bit of a twist in the Ghedjemis transfer story. Initially, it had been suggested that the club were struggling to meet the transfer valuation set by Frosinone. But it looks like a compromise is close.
Celtic reportedly close to completing £6.5 million signing
Ghedjenis has been a standout performer for Frosinone this season. He has scored 8 goals and provided 2 assists in 21 Serie B appearances.
That being said, it is easy to see why many fans will question the level of this signing. After all, he is playing in the second division of Italian football. There is no guarantee that he will be able to deal with the jump up in quality that will come with a move to Celtic.
To be honest, that depends on one player to another. Matt O'Riley moved from League One and ended up becoming one of Celtic's best players and biggest departures. So, there is no reason that Ghedjenis could not make that leap, if he has the quality. The recruitment team's recent record of identifying talent won't fill the fans with confidence though.