Celtic move closer to double signing as one deal is agreed and another advances

Celtic look set to make a strong start to the January transfer window, with the club closing in on a pair of attacking additions as they target two new wingers.

The Scottish champions are eager to strengthen after a difficult spell that ultimately led to Wilfried Nancy’s dismissal, with Martin O’Neill now installed as interim head coach until the end of the season.

Determined to reignite their title challenge, Celtic are prepared to invest this month as they attempt to bridge a six-point gap to Premiership leaders Hearts.

Sources indicate that Celtic are on the verge of completing a £2 million permanent deal for highly rated Ivorian winger Jocelin Ta Bi, while talks are also advancing for Uruguay international Ignacio “Nacho” Laquintana.

An agreement is already believed to be in place for 20-year-old Ta Bi, who has caught the eye during a loan spell at Hapoel Petah Tikva from Maccabi Netanya. The right-sided attacker is expected to undergo a medical in the coming days, with the move progressing rapidly under O’Neill’s watch.

His arrival would come at a pivotal moment for the Hoops, who have turned to the experienced O’Neill for stability following Nancy’s brief and turbulent reign. Now in his third spell as Celtic boss, the Northern Irishman offers familiarity and calm as the club looks to refresh its attacking options during a demanding campaign.

Celtic pressing ahead with double deal

Alongside the Ta Bi signing, Celtic are continuing efforts to land Laquintana from Brazilian side Red Bull Bragantino. The 26-year-old forward is understood to be open to a move to Parkhead, with discussions taking place over the weekend.

A loan deal that includes an option to buy is believed to be Celtic’s preferred structure, enabling Laquintana to contribute immediately while preserving long-term flexibility. Both potential arrivals would strengthen the wide areas, injecting pace, creativity and depth into O’Neill’s squad.

With negotiations moving in a positive direction, Celtic supporters could soon be greeted with official announcements, marking an ambitious and proactive opening to the winter window under the returning manager.

O’Neill, who previously guided the club to major domestic success in the early 2000s, will be keen to harness the new arrivals as he plots a Premiership resurgence.