Forgotten Ex-Celtic Loanee Makes Transfer Pledge

While Celtic continue their search for new additions this summer, former striker Junior Adamu has been looking ahead after sealing a permanent move back in Germany.

The Austrian forward’s time at Parkhead was short and, in truth, never really got going.

Adamu arrived on loan from Bundesliga side Freiburg in January, with Martin O’Neill looking to add much-needed firepower for the second half of the campaign.

He made six appearances in green and white, returning one goal and one assist.

That goal, though, came at a vital moment.

Celtic were staring at a Scottish Cup exit against Dundee at Celtic Park in the fifth round when Adamu was thrown on for his debut. Deep into stoppage time, he produced a brilliant backheel finish in the 97th minute to force extra time. Celtic went on to win 2-1 and kept their cup run alive.

His only assist arrived in the Europa League knockout round play-off away to Stuttgart. Adamu picked out Luke McCowan, who scored inside the opening minute. Celtic won the night 1-0, although the Germans progressed 4-2 on aggregate.

Beyond those moments, opportunities were limited.

Adamu never managed to climb the pecking order and spent most of his spell making substitute appearances. He did not feature during the closing weeks of the season, although he can still point to his contribution in Celtic’s successful Scottish Cup campaign.

His next challenge will come with Schalke 04, who have secured promotion back to the Bundesliga after completing an €800,000 move for the striker.

Speaking after the transfer, Adamu made it clear where his focus now lies. He said (Schalke 04 website):

“I want to give everything in pre-season and put into practice what the coach is asking of us.

“I’m a player who can make runs in behind, I am dangerous in the box and I can score goals.

“I’ve already got a good connection with my teammates.”

It simply did not happen for Adamu in Glasgow, but there is every chance a fresh start back in Germany suits him better.

Meanwhile, Celtic’s attention remains firmly on strengthening their own attacking options before the new season gets underway.

Camilo Duran appears to be moving closer to becoming the club’s first signing of the summer. The Colombian striker has reportedly been booked in for a medical over today and tomorrow, with his agent having been in Glasgow on Saturday.

Duran caught the eye with Qarabag last season, scoring five goals in the Champions League, and looks set to provide Martin O’Neill with another option in the final third.

With the new campaign fast approaching, Celtic still have work to do in the transfer market. If Duran gets his move over the line, supporters will hope it is only the start of a busy spell at Parkhead.