‘Completed in the coming days’ – Celtic close to second January signing

The January transfer window is shaping up to be a hugely important period for Celtic, perhaps even a defining one. Whether any amount of business can fully rescue what has already been a deeply frustrating campaign remains to be seen, but reinforcements are clearly needed if the season is to avoid completely unravelling.

So far, the pressure has continued to mount on Wilfried Nancy. From performances alone, many supporters remain unconvinced that he is the right man to lead the Hoops forward. Results have been inconsistent, confidence appears fragile, and questions are growing louder with every dropped point. Despite this, the Celtic hierarchy seem determined to stick by their man, even as momentum slips away. For some fans, it feels as though backing the appointment is being prioritised over addressing what is happening on the pitch.

With that backdrop, January recruitment becomes even more critical.

Celtic Begin January Business

Celtic have already made one move this window, bringing in Julian Araujo on loan from Bournemouth. While that signing has raised some eyebrows, it at least shows intent to strengthen the squad during a difficult period.

Now, it appears a second addition is close to being finalised.

According to The Celtic Way, Celtic are on the verge of completing a deal for right winger Jocelin Ta Bi, with the move to Scottish football expected to be wrapped up “in the coming days.” If completed as anticipated, Ta Bi would become Wilfried Nancy’s second signing since arriving at Parkhead.

A Move That Raises Questions

On paper, the signing is an intriguing one, but it also raises plenty of questions.

Nancy’s current tactical system has already been a talking point among supporters, with many struggling to identify clearly defined roles for traditional positions. Celtic have added a right-back, and now appear to be closing in on a right winger, yet neither role seems naturally suited to the structure currently being deployed.

That disconnect has left fans wondering exactly how new arrivals are expected to fit in, and whether recruitment is being driven by a clear footballing plan or simply by opportunity.

Another “Project” Signing?

Ta Bi is not necessarily being brought in as an immediate game-changer, and that may be part of the frustration. Once again, Celtic appear to be opting for a project signing — a player with potential, but one who may need time to adapt, develop, and find his footing.

In recent seasons, this approach has produced mixed results at best. While the club has unearthed the occasional success story, far more project signings have failed to make a meaningful impact before quietly moving on. That history makes it difficult for supporters to feel overly optimistic, especially in the middle of such a turbulent campaign.

Of course, it would be unfair to judge any player before they have pulled on the shirt. Ta Bi deserves the opportunity to prove himself, and football is full of examples of players who exceeded early expectations. Still, the reality is that the odds are stacked against him from the outset.

A Tough Environment to Impress

Celtic are currently out of form, lacking confidence, and facing intense scrutiny from their own support. That environment is not an easy one for a new signing — particularly a young or developing player — to step into.

At a club of Celtic’s size, patience is always limited. Expectations are high, mistakes are magnified, and momentum can shift rapidly. If immediate results do not follow, attention quickly turns elsewhere, and opportunities can dry up just as fast as they appear.

What Comes Next?

With January still unfolding, Celtic’s business may not be finished just yet. Supporters will be hoping that experience and proven quality are also targeted before the window closes, not just potential for the future.

For now, all signs point to Jocelin Ta Bi becoming Celtic’s second January signing, with the deal expected to be completed shortly. Whether he can make an impact — or whether this proves to be another gamble in an already risky season — remains to be seen.

One thing is certain: the coming days could prove crucial for Celtic, both on and off the pitch.