Celtic are approaching the January transfer window with change expected both in and out of Parkhead.
Movement looks likely as Wilfried Nancy continues to shape his squad following a difficult start to his reign. Four straight defeats brought early pressure, but a 3-1 victory over Aberdeen just before Christmas has eased tensions slightly. The Hoops still have Premiership trips to Livingston and Motherwell to complete their 2025 schedule before a derby clash with Rangers and the opening of the transfer window.
Nancy’s preference for a back-three system has highlighted several areas that require reinforcement, although departures remain a real possibility. Below are seven players who could feature in Celtic’s transfer plans this window, including a potential signing from Birmingham City and a familiar face who could return.
Hayato Inamura (outgoing)
The Japanese defender arrived during the summer and impressed in pre-season, but opportunities have been limited under Brendan Rodgers, Martin O’Neill and now Nancy. He has featured mainly for the B team this season and, despite being tied to a long-term deal, does not appear to be in the club’s immediate plans. A loan move could be considered.
Evan Ferguson (incoming)
Ferguson is a player Celtic are believed to be tracking, and the club recently saw him first-hand when he scored twice for Roma in a Europa League victory over the Hoops. The Brighton striker has struggled during his loan spell in Italy, having also found minutes hard to come by previously at West Ham. With reports suggesting Roma could cut the loan short, Celtic may see an opportunity to move for a striker — a position Nancy is keen to strengthen.
Callum McGregor (outgoing)
A mid-season exit for the Celtic captain would be a major surprise, but speculation has linked him with a potential move to Saudi club Al-Qadsiah, where Rodgers is reportedly keen on a reunion. Former Celtic midfielder Peter Grant suggested McGregor would be more likely to wait until the summer, stressing the skipper’s desire to win another title and see out the current campaign despite the challenges of a new manager and inconsistent results.
Issa Doumbia (incoming)
If one midfielder were to depart, another could arrive. Italy Under-21 international Issa Doumbia has been linked with a move to Celtic, with reports claiming club scouts have watched the Venezia midfielder in Serie B. Club Brugge and Espanyol are also believed to be monitoring the situation.
Daizen Maeda (outgoing)
Maeda’s future remains uncertain. The forward was keen to leave during the summer but was prevented from doing so. January could present another opportunity, although Nancy has made it clear he views Maeda as an important figure. Speaking recently, the Celtic boss insisted the Japanese international is happy at the club and fully committed for now.
Kyogo (incoming)
Life away from Celtic has not gone smoothly for Kyogo since his January 2025 departure. A move to Rennes was cut short, and he has yet to score in the Championship for Birmingham City. With speculation already building about his future, talk of a possible return to Celtic has emerged. Some player-club relationships just work, and Kyogo’s bond with the Hoops remains strong.
Stephen Welsh (returning)
One of the Premiership’s standout defenders this season is currently playing away from Celtic. On loan at Motherwell, Stephen Welsh has been central to a strong defensive run that has seen the Steelmen climb to third place while recording six consecutive clean sheets. His composure and passing ability have stood out, and Nancy’s switch to a back three could provide an opportunity for Welsh to re-establish himself at Celtic if his form continues.
Leave a Reply