Celtic have finally landed their long-awaited striker after completing the signing of Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho on a free transfer from Sevilla.
The deal was confirmed more than 24 hours after the closure of the Scottish transfer window.
The 28-year-old had been in talks with the Scottish Premiership champions late on Monday, following his release by Sevilla earlier in the day.
However, negotiations dragged on past the official deadline, forcing Iheanacho to wait until 11:06 pm on Tuesday for the transfer to be officially announced. His arrival fills a glaring need in Brendan Rodgers’ squad, which had been left short of attacking options.
A long search ends with familiar face
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Celtic’s pursuit of a new striker had already endured several setbacks. The Hoops targeted Kasper Dolberg from Anderlecht, but Ajax hijacked the deal at the last moment. A loan move for Chelsea forward David Datro Fofana also collapsed.
Complicating matters further, Celtic sanctioned the £7m sale of Adam Idah to Swansea City before a replacement had been secured. Although they managed to sign Sebastian Tounekti from Hammarby IF for £5.2m on Deadline Day, Rodgers remained desperate for an experienced centre-forward to lead the line. The arrival of Iheanacho, therefore, provides relief for fans and the coaching staff alike.
Crucially, this move reunites Iheanacho with Rodgers, under whom he thrived at Leicester City. During the 2020/21 Premier League season, the Nigerian international recorded the most prolific campaign of his career, scoring 12 league goals under Rodgers’ guidance.
Rodgers’ confidence and Iheanacho’s fresh start
The Celtic manager expressed excitement at working with Iheanacho again, praising the striker’s qualities.
“I know Kelechi so well and what he can bring to the team,” Rodgers said.
“He is such a talented player, with great ability, athleticism and work-rate. I am sure he will love being at Celtic, and I believe our fans will love what he brings.”
Rodgers further emphasised that Iheanacho is arriving at the peak of his career, making the signing all the more valuable.
“He has great experience and he is right in his peak years so he can be a great signing for us. I am sure he will make a big contribution to the team,” he added.
For Iheanacho, this transfer represents both a fresh start and a chance to rediscover his best form under a familiar mentor. With Celtic competing on multiple fronts this season, the Nigerian forward’s experience at the highest level in England and Europe could prove vital.
Moreover, his proven connection with Rodgers may well rekindle the kind of form that once made him one of the Premier League’s hottest strikers.
Tags: Kelechi Iheanacho, Celtic, Scottish Premier League, SPL, Brendan Rodgers, Leicester City, Super Eagles, #SoarSuperEagles, Sevilla.
