Martin O’Neill has gone into more detail on Camilo Duran as Celtic close in on their first summer signing.
Speaking to the Daily Record after the match, O’Neill said: “Yeah, I think that Tim Williamson our physio has gone down to meet up with him and I think that that’s going to happen.
“I think that he should join us in Portugal, certainly in the next 24 hours.”
That is the clearest sign yet that Duran’s move is now at the final stage.
Celtic are due to continue their pre-season work in Portugal, and the plan appears to be for the Colombian forward to link up with the squad once the formalities are completed.
O’Neill also gave a short insight into what he believes Duran can bring to the squad.
He said: “What can he bring as a player? Obviously he’s still very young. I think that what he can do is that I think he can hold up play.
“I think he’s strong in that there, in that department. We need a few players. It’s as simple as that. But I do think that he will be a good addition. Famous last word.”
That final line carried a typical bit of O’Neill humour, but Celtic need reinforcements, and Duran is now expected to be one of them.
The 24-year-old scored 15 goals for Qarabağ last season and also provided 10 assists. His Champions League record has been a major part of the attraction, with Duran scoring five times in the competition.
Celtic have been working on the deal for several days, with reports suggesting the package could rise to around £6million once add-ons are included.
O’Neill did not go into the fee, but his comments make clear that the deal is no longer just a rumour from Azerbaijan or Scotland. The manager is now openly discussing the player, the medical process and where he fits into the squad.
Duran’s ability to hold the ball up is a brilliant insight from O’Neill.
Celtic have needed more presence in the final third, and O’Neill clearly sees the Colombian as someone who can offer strength and a platform for others around him.
There is still paperwork to be completed, but barring a late issue, Duran now looks set to become Celtic’s first signing of the summer.
His arrival in Portugal would allow him to get straight into the group and begin working with his new teammates before the competitive football returns.
