The international winger is now keen on joining Celtic, who saw a Jocelin Ta Bi move collapse, and talks are already underway.
Celtic’s January transfer window has proven frustrating so far. The club have managed to bring in just one reinforcement, with Julian Araujo arriving on loan until the end of the season, but several other proposed moves have failed to come to fruition. Expected deals involving Kyogo and Niko Sigur ultimately collapsed, and now Jocelin Ta Bi also appears set to miss out on a move to Parkhead despite an agreement being in place.
The breakdown of that deal is understood to be linked to a previously existing injury issue. Reports suggest Ta Bi requires surgery, prompting Celtic to withdraw from the transfer despite having already agreed both a fee and personal terms.
Attention has now turned back to the wide areas, where Celtic are believed to be keen on adding reinforcements before the window closes. That desire is understandable. Summer signings Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Sebastaian Tounekti have struggled to make the desired impact, while Jota remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from a serious injury picked up last season. On a positive note, Yang Hyun-jun has impressed in recent weeks and emerged as one of the brighter performers in the squad.
Even so, the lack of depth and consistent quality out wide remains a concern, and Celtic are actively exploring their options. One such option appears to be an international winger from South America.
According to a report from The Herald, Uruguayan international Ignacio Laquintana is open to a move to Celtic, with discussions currently ongoing over a potential loan deal that could include an option to buy next summer.
Laquintana is currently contracted to Brazilian side RB Bragantino and has yet to test himself in European football, which naturally raises questions about how quickly he could adapt to the Scottish game. However, his background suggests genuine potential. The winger has previously featured for notable clubs such as Santos and Peñarol and has already earned two caps for Uruguay, finding the net once at international level.
Given the setbacks Celtic have faced during this transfer window, supporters will remain cautious until any deal is officially confirmed. Still, this latest development represents a rare piece of encouraging news as the club looks to strengthen its attacking options before time runs out.
