Camilo Duran has wasted little time making an impression at Celtic, even before kicking a ball in green and white.

The Colombian striker linked up with Martin O’Neill’s squad in Portugal after completing his move from Qarabag, becoming the club’s first signing of the summer.

Duran has signed a five-year deal in a transfer worth up to £6 million, with Celtic hoping they have found the added firepower needed at the top end of the pitch.

The 24-year-old arrives after an impressive season in Azerbaijan, scoring 15 goals in all competitions. His performances in Europe, where he struck five times in the Champions League, helped put him firmly on Celtic’s radar.

Qarabag have landed a sizeable profit on the deal after signing Duran for around £200,000 in August 2025.

He took part in training with his new teammates for the first time this week as preparations continue for Tuesday’s friendly against Sporting CP.

James Forrest has already liked what he has seen.

“Aye, he looks good. I think he scored five goals in the Champions League last year as well.

“He’s going to be a good player, he looks like a good athlete, he looks quick and that as well. So it’s exciting.

“I think it’s always good when we get signings in and other players look forward to that as well, so obviously we’ll see over the coming days how he is.” (RecordSport)

Those are encouraging words from one of the most experienced players in the dressing room. Forrest has seen plenty of new arrivals come through the doors at Lennoxtown over the years and knows the level required to succeed at Celtic.

Early impressions only go so far, but pace, athleticism and a proven eye for goal are qualities supporters have been looking for. Duran now has the chance to show those attributes in pre-season before the competitive action begins.

There will be plenty of interest in whether he gets his first minutes against Sporting CP. Pre-season friendlies can only tell you so much, but they offer the first glimpse of how a new signing fits into O’Neill’s plans.

Duran may be the first arrival of the window, but few supporters will believe the work is finished. Celtic are still expected to strengthen further before the Premiership campaign gets under way.

Martin O’Neill will certainly hope that proves to be the case as Celtic look to build a squad capable of retaining their league crown and securing a sixth Premiership title in a row. For now, though, attention will be on Duran as he looks to justify the excitement surrounding his arrival.