Celtic have reportedly agreed personal terms with a 25-year-old striker currently playing in the Bundesliga, a move that could see Martin O’Neill secure his first signing of the winter transfer window.
The Hoops’ need for a striker has been well documented. Kyogo’s departure last January was never properly addressed, and Adam Idah’s exit in the summer only deepened the issue. As things stand, Johnny Kenny is leading the line, and while his effort cannot be questioned, the responsibility is arguably too great at this stage of his development.
Unsurprisingly, Celtic have been linked with a long list of forwards throughout the window. However, the latest development appears to have come from nowhere, with a name that had barely been mentioned in recent weeks now moving to the forefront.
According to respected reporter Florian Plettenberg, Celtic have already reached an agreement on personal terms with Borussia Mönchengladbach striker Tomas Čvančara. The focus now shifts to negotiations between the two clubs.
Čvančara’s emergence as a target has caught many by surprise, particularly with Celtic previously linked to other Bundesliga forwards such as Andrej Ilić and Jonas Wind. Nevertheless, talks appear to be progressing behind the scenes.
Deal structure still to be agreed
While personal terms are in place, the transfer is not yet complete. Celtic are believed to be pushing for a loan deal that includes an option to buy at the end of the season — a structure the club has favoured in recent windows.
Whether Borussia Mönchengladbach are open to such an arrangement remains to be seen. If an agreement cannot be reached, Celtic may be forced to explore alternative options.
Still, securing personal terms represents a significant step forward and suggests that Celtic’s long-running striker search may finally be edging closer to a resolution.