Celtic midfielder Odin Thiago Holm looks set to depart Parkhead on loan during the January transfer window, with MLS side LAFC emerging as the frontrunners for his signature.
Holm joined Celtic in the summer of 2023 with high expectations, touted as a future star for the club. However, his time in Glasgow has not gone as planned. The 21-year-old Norwegian has struggled for game time, making just 16 appearances since his arrival—only three of which have come this season, totalling a mere 24 minutes on the pitch.
But, the three appearances did come in Celtic’s first three league matches of the season, but he’s been out of every single league squad since with a calf injury.
Compounding matters, Holm was left out of Celtic’s Champions League squad, an omission that signalled his diminishing role under Brendan Rodgers.
While European clubs are reportedly monitoring Holm’s situation, it is LAFC who are leading the race to secure his services. According to SunSport, the MLS outfit is keen on a loan deal, though the exact duration of the potential move remains unclear.
LAFC’s interest aligns with a growing trend of MLS clubs snapping up young European talent, offering players a fresh environment to rediscover their form. For Holm, it could represent a crucial opportunity to reignite his career.
Holm’s potential loan move could benefit all parties. Celtic would gain clarity on whether the midfielder has a future at the club, while Holm himself would get the regular game time he desperately needs.
Despite his limited impact at Parkhead, Holm still possesses the talent that made him a sought-after prospect when he joined Celtic. A successful loan spell could either pave the way for his return to the Hoops with renewed confidence or position him for a permanent transfer elsewhere.
Celtic’s packed midfield options have undoubtedly played a role in Holm’s struggles. With players like Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate, Arne Engels, Luke McCowan and Paulo Bernardo excelling in the engine room, opportunities for fringe players have been scarce. The potential signing of additional midfielders in January could further limit Holm’s prospects at the club.
It looks like Holm is set to join Stephen Welsh in the January loans out of Celtic, with the defender set for some time in Belgium.
Very disappointed with how the situation with Holm seems to have turned out. Early on, I thought he looked a real talent and a future star for us but it appeared that he never really got a fair chance after that double sending off in Europe (along with Lagerbielke).
Of course, his apparent lengthy injury didn’t help matters. Nevertheless, I still think he has a lot to offer but whatever has been going on in training etc., we’ll never know.
Is he really doing what coaches want Rodgers has been quoted as saying he has to cover more ground when given chance that says it your make your opposing player tired then you never stop moving